Ryan FowlerThatcham Research has welcomed the Government’s latest consultation outcome on phasing out new petrol and diesel vehicles, while calling for urgent action to address the UK’s EV skills gap.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to the 2035 zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate and outlined measures to support the automotive sector, including investment in skills development. Thatcham Research, which contributed to the consultation, emphasised the need for standardised diagnostics and a skilled workforce to support sustainable EV adoption.
The organisation has warned that just 16% of UK technicians currently hold the qualifications needed to safely handle and repair electric vehicles. It has called for a national push to train apprentices in advanced diagnostic software and battery repair, helping to reduce waste and support a circular economy.
Dan Harrowell, principal engineer of advanced technologies at Thatcham Research, said: “It’s encouraging that the Government is committed to the 2035 ZEV mandate, while recognising the need to improve EV repair efficiencies in line with ICE vehicles and develop essential skills for this transition.
“However, we cannot overlook other critical issues, such as addressing the gaps in HV battery reconditioning and remanufacturing within the UK’s circular economy.”
Thatcham Research will work with the new Skills England body to ensure that training provision meets the needs of the evolving automotive sector. It believes the UK can become a global leader in vehicle diagnostics apprenticeships, equipping the next generation of technicians with the tools to support the ZEV transition.
