EV-ready technician numbers rise

30 June 2022  

Q1 2022 saw the highest ever increase in then number of EV-qualified technicians for a single three-month period, according to figures collated by the IMI, with the expected shortfall between the number of EVs, and the number of qualified techs now not expected until 2028, instead of 2026.

IMI CEO Steve Nash said: “The promising increase in technicians who have taken EV qualifications so far this year, which in turn makes them eligible to obtain IMI TechSafe recognition, is extremely encouraging.

“2021 ended with 11% of technicians being EV qualified. At the end of March 2022, the dial had moved to 13%, representing over 28,000 technicians across the UK – it’s a real sign that the sector is responding to the increasing adoption of EV motoring. What’s more, early indications are that figures for Quarter 2 will set another new record, which is great news for the industry and for the increasing number of EV drivers.”

Technicians who have fulfilled the requirements of the IMI TechSafe standards – endorsed by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) – can join the IMI’s Professional Register.

Steve added: “For technicians who have the relevant qualification, the IMI’s Professional Register is also a valuable tool to reach a wider customer base. For those with IMI TechSafe recognition, it will help them attract EV owners as potential long-term customers.”