IMI launches new EV training modules with Vocanto

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) is launching more than 45 eLearning modules for electric vehicles (EVs) through a new partnership with Vocanto.

The new modules will be available to the IMI’s network of approved training centres at the start of 2021, with further modules scheduled for launch through the year for other areas of automotive training.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, said: “Currently around 5% of UK automotive technicians are adequately trained to work on electric vehicles. The need to ramp-up this number was already taxing the best minds in the automotive sector; but that became even more urgent when the Government confirmed the new date of 2030 for the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars last month. The challenge – and especially while social distancing remains such an important factor for everyone’s health – is how to make this training as accessible as possible to those who need it.”

Last week, in an open letter responding to the announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson that the sale of non-electrified diesel or petrol powered cars would be banned in 2030 – with a ban on hybrids due to be introduced in 2035 – IMI leaders aired their concerns about a lack of necessary skills in the sector.

The new e-learning platform will enable technicians to access training while social distancing measures remain in place across the country.

Vocanto is an international e-learning training specialist and will host the IMI’s content on its platform.

The Vocanto eLearning platform uses 3D models to provide simple and easy-to-understand visualisations of examination topics in various professional training programs. Individual topics can be covered in 10-15 minutes to engender learner engagement and immediate feedback is provided to give trainees insight into where they need to focus their skills.

The IMI has been working with Vocanto and its sister company Lucas-Nülle for more than five years, providing the international qualifications for Lucas-Nülle’s customers around the world.

Johannes Schulte of Vocanto added: “Automotive technology is advancing rapidly; it’s vital therefore to provide a learning platform that will engage and excite those who want to be at the forefront of this sector. We believe Vocanto fits the bill, particularly at a time when the need is urgent and training centres are having to find new ways to train. We are extremely excited to be continuing our partnership with the IMI to deliver this platform to the professional body’s network of approved training centres.”