In response to the growing prevalence of electric vehicles (EVs), Autoglass is proactively training its technicians to meet the demand for specialised EV windscreen repair.
- Autoglass has already trained 400 technicians in EV repair since January, aiming for over 1,000 to achieve accreditation.
- The company is addressing a significant skills gap in the industry, ensuring technicians are prepared for increased EV jobs.
- This initiative reflects Autoglass’s commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and competence in vehicle repair.
- The ongoing investment in training is pivotal as EVs become more common on UK roads.
In an era marked by the rapid transition to electric vehicles (EVs), Autoglass is leading the charge in preparing its workforce for this shift. The company has trained 400 technicians in EV repair since the initiative began in January, with ambitions to extend this training to over 1,000 technicians. Autoglass’s approach is a strategic response to the rising number of EVs, which now account for 17.6% of car registrations as of May 2024, according to SMMT data.
The programme focuses on equipping technicians with an Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) EV level III accreditation. This certification ensures they have the necessary skills to safely and effectively work on a variety of electric vehicles, including both vans and trucks. By securing this accreditation, Autoglass’s technicians are better positioned to handle the growing volume of EV-related jobs, thus bridging a recognised skills gap in the industry.
Autoglass has invested over £350,000 in this training effort, underscoring its dedication to developing a competent and capable team. This commitment to training not only enhances service quality but also aligns with industry safety standards. In recognition of these efforts, parent company Belron was named an IMI TechSafe Centre of Excellence in 2023, a testament to its robust investment in skills and training.
Tim Camm, the technical training and quality manager at Autoglass, emphasised the importance of this initiative. “EVs are becoming more and more common on UK roads, and this trend is only going to continue in the years ahead. It is essential that this growing demand is reflected in the skills and capabilities of the aftermarket industry,” he stated. Camm’s perspective highlights the forward-thinking approach of Autoglass as the company continues to invest in ensuring their technicians remain at the forefront of technological advancements.
The commitment extends beyond mere training into a broader vision of readiness and sustainability within the industry. By investing in green solutions and continuous training, Autoglass is positioning itself as a leader prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s automotive landscape.
Autoglass’s dedication to comprehensive EV training prepares its technicians for the inevitable rise in electric vehicle demands.
