Workshops drive investment in EV skills and tech, says SMMT
24 September 2025 
Over 80% of UK workshops are now ready to service EVs and investment in skills is increasing across a sector that is worth more than £17 billion to the UK annually, according to a landmark industry study.
Analysis by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has revealed that four in five garages are investing in the skills and tools needed to maintain EVs and advanced safety technologies.
SMMT’s latest aftermarket report, Jobs, growth, mobility – what the aftermarket needs to deliver, said ongoing investment will ensure drivers rapidly upgrading to safer, greener cars have ample service provision while helping accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero.
Now SMMT is calling on the government to introduce capital investment relief for vehicle test stations and workshops upgrading equipment to meet enhanced MOT standards.
A series of recommendations* in the report include ensuring access to technical repair and maintenance data for independent operators and providing adequate funding for the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency’s Market Surveillance Unit, to effectively monitor use of non-compliant replacement parts being used on-road and illegal modifications.
Spending increase
According to the study, conducted for SMMT by Censuswide, the aftermarket sector is crucial to the British economy, turning over £62.2 billion and supporting at least 339,000 jobs.
Nearly 80% of respondents said they were equipped to service and maintain ADAS systems, with 83.5% expecting to increase spending on ADAS training and equipment over the next 12 months.
There are an estimated 1.6 million electric cars on UK roads, with EVs now accounting for more than a fifth of all new car registrations – a proportion that SMMT said must almost quadruple to 80% of the new car market by 2030 under the zero emission vehicle mandate.
Meanwhile, eight out of 10 new cars include ADAS such as autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said the UK aftermarket is embracing the future of automotive technology, and investing in the skills and equipment needed to maintain the very latest vehicles to help deliver safe, sustainable mobility for all.
“With a rapid influx of smarter, zero emission vehicles reaching the road, however, helping businesses invest will be crucial if more drivers are to make the switch while maintaining the UK’s leading road safety record, and creating crucial jobs in every part of the country.”