Continental Automotive is an approved Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) centre and can deliver a full electric (EV) and hybrid electric vehicle training programme from its Birmingham headquarters.
Continental Automotive reported it was pleased to see “such a lot of interest” in its EV training courses, with “very positive feedback” from those candidates who have already attended.
“We really do feel these courses are crucial, given the direction of the automotive industry towards electrification,” explained Continental Automotive Tachograph Product Manager and Training Centre Co-ordinator, Stuart West.
“There is currently a serious deficit in the number of automotive technicians trained to work on EV and hybrid vehicles – latest data suggests just over 5% are currently qualified. We have, therefore, invested in enhancing our training to bring these new technologies into scope to support automotive professionals who want to enhance their skills, and give motorists confidence that their EV and hybrid vehicles can be serviced and maintained safely.
“It is great to be a part of such an important movement, and we are delighted to be able to continue supporting the automotive industry in offering courses that will help to fill this skills gap, making a real difference in the automotive world.”
Continental Automotive cited Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders data in May 2021, which showed that EVs filled 23% of the new vehicle market; however, the IMI reported that only 6.5% of the automotive workforce were ‘EV ready’ at the end of 2020.
The company said many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have communicated ambitious targets to make their vehicles electric, in some cases, converting their full range to all electric as early as 2024. The IAAF recently shared a GiPA forecast stating that by 2025, EVs will potentially represent up to 21% of the UK passenger car vehicle parc – now, more than ever, there is a need for EV training!
This is also great news for technicians, when considering over the last four years, the average salary of a technician with EV skills is around £7,000 higher than a technician without, according to the IMI (UK Automotive Sector Baseline Report 2021).
Why choose Continental Automotive as an EV training provider?
Continental Automotive said it was at the forefront of new technology and developments within the EV sector. Eleven EV Continental components went into the new Volkswagen ID3, so as an approved OE parts manufacturer, it has excellent knowledge of this new technology.
The courses range from one to three days and cover awareness, routine maintenance, repair, replacement and diagnosis. There is the opportunity to attend the full set of courses or just one or two to suit individual needs.
All the EV and hybrid vehicle training courses will be regulated by OFQUAL and quality assured by the IMI as the awarding organisation – once qualified, technicians receive a nationally recognised certificate.
To book an EV training course on the Continental Automotive website, click here.
