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As the world aims to reach a cleaner, greener future, the automotive industry is undergoing an evolution like never before. The shift towards electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell technology and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is creating new opportunities and challenges for everyone within the industry. But for those involved in repairing and maintaining these vehicles, the uncertainties surrounding what technology will be coming down the line next, and frankly a fear of the unknown, is amplifying the skills deficit.
This recent report from Reuters has highlighted the fact that this issue is not being felt in the UK alone but globally. And, as the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) highlights - training technicians to prepare them for the vehicles of today and the future is not a one-stop-shop solution. With vehicles and technology evolving constantly, it is vital that we continue to upskill while remaining agile to ensure we stay ahead of the curve.
As the automotive industry transitions towards alternate fuels and new technology, comprehensive training is becoming more and more essential for vehicle maintenance, repair and diagnosing faults. At Autotech Training, we understand the need to provide high-quality training that goes beyond basic automotive certification. We are continually tailoring our delivery and working with awarding bodies like the IMI to develop new courses which cover new and emerging technologies.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology is one of the alternatives that is projected to play a significant role in shaping the vehicles of the future. However, experts in the industry warn that this technology is still relatively new and requires specialised training for those who will be working on these vehicles. At Autotech Training, our IMI Level 1 Award In Hydrogen Vehicle Awareness is for learners who have an interest in gaining the knowledge to work safely within the automotive retail industry as it continues to see an increase in hydrogen vehicles entering the workplace. This course offering will evolve as more Hydrogen vehicles enter the car parc.
ADAS is another area that is rapidly growing in popularity, with more manufacturers equipping their vehicles with ADAS technology to enhance safety and convenience. By 2030, 44% of cars on UK roads will include ADAS. The maintenance and calibration of ADAS technology is highly complex and currently reflects a massive skills shortage which is only set to intensify. In fact, to meet 2030 expectations, a total of 106,000 qualified technicians will be required. Our ADAS course is designed to enable technicians to develop an understanding of the different advanced driver assistance systems that are in use, their advantages and disadvantages.
The IMI raises an important point about the challenge of neurodiversity. As the industry evolves, there is a growing need to ensure that training is accessible to all with different needs. At Autotech Training, we believe in flexibility and tailor our training to the specific needs of each individual or team. This way, we can ensure that everyone receives the training they need in a way that best suits them. Our services are available on-site, at the customer’s place of work, which not only cuts down on costs but also helps people digest the training in an environment in which they are comfortable, and the trainer can deliver part of the course on the vehicles they see day in, day out. This is particularly relevant for fleet operators and the emergency services.
As the automotive industry continues to shift towards new technologies and fuel alternatives, it is essential that training and upskilling is supported and invested in to help those within the industry adapt and evolve. At Autotech Training, we collaborate with industry bodies who are working towards a cleaner, greener future for the automotive industry, with a commitment to learning and growth which will help the automotive aftermarket create a strong, skilled foundation which will sustain it well into the future.
