By 2025, the UK fleet vehicle industry will account for 75 per cent of all electric cars on the road. However, a major knowledge gap surrounding EVs and a lack of basic training is set to thwart employee usage. As a direct result, Autotech Training, the dedicated training division of Autotech Recruit, is now delivering on-site IMI Electric Vehicle training, from Levels 1 to 3, to all employees within any organisation which is electrifying its fleet.
Why Electric?
In the bid to decarbonise road transport, the government is turbocharging its commitment to improving air quality. By driving down emissions and encouraging drivers to make the switch to cleaner, greener vehicles.
Local authorities will set the standard for this electric revolution. There are plug-in car grants to fund EV fleet vehicles, as part of the government's Road to Zero Strategy.
As a result, many businesses and local authorities are switching their fleet vehicles to electric and hybrid. There is very little provision for EV training. Many employees say they have received very basic guidance through a PowerPoint presentation. So, this electric vehicle uptake could just be a 'tick the box' exercise for many organisations.
Safety First
The high voltage nature of EVs introduces safety considerations and hazards. And ALL employees that come into contact with them during their day to day duties require training. Enabling them to safely operate, and work alongside, electric and hybrid fleet cars. In accordance with the Electricity at Work regulations, enforced by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) all employers have a responsibility to ensure that employees are adequately trained - otherwise they may find themselves liable.
Training
To minimise any time away from business, Autotech Training is delivering all levels of its Electric Vehicle Training within an organisation's own premises, with training delivered by experienced, fully qualified, trainers.
"It is vital that employees, whether they will drive an electric fleet vehicle or not, receive training to ensure they can safely work alongside EVs," comments Mandla Ndhlovu, Head of Training & Apprentice, Autotech Recruit. "We offer on-site training, with an actual electric vehicle for level 2 and 3 courses, to not only provide awareness, but the hands-on approach helps to de-mystify electric vehicles which is a major bottleneck in uptake."
Autotech Training can deliver Level 1 EV training to up to 14 employees at any one time, or via the IMI's eLearning platform. Up to six employees over a two day period can take part in Levels 2 and 3 EV training.
For further information on on-site electric fleet vehicle training, please email hello@attrainingtesting-co-uk.stackstaging.com.