Executive View: The EV skills shortage will hinder Europe’s energy transition

Electric vehicles have been around for a decade yet owners are driving around in circles when finding specialist technicians to fix their motors, according to Marc Russell, chief commercial officer of FixMyCar. 

European mobility is making positive progress towards net zero. In May 2024, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 14% of the plug-in vehicle market share. However, electric vehicle (EV) owners are driving around in circles when finding specialist technicians to fix their motors, according to Marc Russell.

EV-trained talent and qualified repair shops are essential components to future-proofing the transition to EVs. The European Commission predicts EVs will lead to a 4 million job growth across the 27 countries. There is a significant opportunity for local garages and repair shops to bring in more customers by investing in the upskilling of their workforce.

Despite the prospect of job growth for EV technicians, challenging market conditions, high training costs and expensive tools have put the brakes on garages offering EV-specific services. The IMI estimates that 20% of UK automotive technicians, for example, have received some EV training, but only 1% are qualified to do more than routine maintenance.

The impact of the EV-skills shortage on the consumer is longer wait times and soaring repair costs. The maintenance needs of ageing electric vehicles are only increasing. That’s why, close collaboration between the automotive industry, governments, educators and garages is crucial to meet demand and reduce costs.

Raising awareness of EV needs

With the EU’s ambitious target to be climate-neutral by 2050, investment researcher Jeffries predicts the number of EVs on its roads will reach 6.8 million by 2030. This rapid increase in ownership will create a substantial demand for qualified technicians who can safely and efficiently maintain and repair these vehicles.

Unlike traditional cars, EVs come with high-voltage systems. Advanced batteries and software-driven diagnostics require specialist knowledge, skills and tools to maintain and repair them safely. Many garages and mechanics are yet to adapt, held back by limited training options, expensive tools and a lack of capacity to take on EV bookings.

Raising awareness amongst the younger generation about EV-qualified technicians will encourage more individuals to consider careers in this field. Change needs to happen from the jump. When school leavers choose their career paths, EVs should be a part of the engineering syllabus at A-Level or apprenticeship schemes.

Manufacturers like Audi and Kia offer education in electrification and some colleges offer specific EV courses, but this needs to be reflected in the core curriculum. Otherwise, unless chosen to specialise in EVs, there is an imbalance in the skills learnt by the mechanics of tomorrow.

The power of partnerships

The IMI, a leading professional body for the automotive sector, offers accredited EV courses across levels 1 to 4. By providing comprehensive and up-to-date training programs, the IMI helps to maintain high standards of professionalism and expertise within the industry.

Beyond ensuring the workforce has had ample training on how to repair EVs, the pressure for garages to invest in specific EV diagnostic and repair equipment can be a burden. One investment method garages can try is collaborating with EV manufacturers, and equipment suppliers - who may be able to offer discounted pricing, bulk purchase deals, or leasing options.

Another consideration is working with local public transport providers with EV fleets to access specialised equipment on a rental basis. By using the latest technology on an ad-hoc basis, garages can offer hands-on training to their staff and save costs long-term.

An opportunity to lead the green revolution

The next decade will be a pivotal time for the industry - the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will begin to fade out, manufacturers' EV production targets may increase and more EV wheels join Europe’s roads. It's now time for garages and mechanics to join the transition. 

The success of Europe's transition to electric mobility depends on the ease and convenience of all steps in the buyer journey from production to aftercare. Addressing the EV skills shortage is crucial to ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.

By investing in training, acquiring specialised equipment, and collaborating with industry partners, garages can meet the growing demand for EV services and contribute to a more sustainable future. Without these changes, Europe's progress towards a cleaner and greener transportation sector will stall. By seizing the chance to lead the EV revolution rather than follow - garages can thrive in a new market.

Marc Russell is CCO at FixMyCar