Allianz Partners has committed to training all of its roadside technicians to the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) L3 Award in electric and hybrid vehicle system repair.

Two thirds of the company’s national network of manufacturer dedicated and multi-brand roadside technicians have already achieved the accreditation, with the remaining third expected to complete it by March.

Ian Burchette, technical development manager at Allianz Partners UK, said: “As EVs become more popular we have a duty of care as an assistance provider to protect not only our technicians when they repair these vehicles, but also the public and our partners.

“We have always invested in the continual professional development of our technicians, making sure they are trained to the highest level. The skills and professionalism of our roadside assistance technicians are at the heart of our success, and this new commitment enables us to continue to deliver the best customer service on behalf of our manufacturer clients.”

The TechSafe Standards for those working on Electric Vehicles (EV) are set by the IMI and endorsed by the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). In addition, the Electricity at Work Regulations require additional training and protection for those working on these vehicles.

Through the IMI L3 all TechSafe approved technicians are trained to understand and manage the risks of working on EVs, disconnect high voltage systems and identify solutions. They are also able to communicate knowledgeably with customers at the roadside.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, added: “As EVs become more common on our roads, the technology that technicians encounter every day is changing rapidly. Motorists need to know that the technician assessing and repairing their vehicle at the roadside has the right skills to do the job, and by investing in fast-tracking EV training, Allianz Partners is providing that assurance.

“Recognising the strong commitment by Allianz Partners to empower its technicians with the knowledge and skills to assist and repair EVs, which will benefit the market as a whole, we are delighted to have invited the business to participate in the EV Sector Advisory Panel, which works primarily to set out qualification standards and CPD across the automotive sector.”