Automechanika Birmingham is to hold an EV Training Academy at the NEC exhibition 6-8 June 2023.
In partnership with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and Our Virtual Academy (OVA), the EV Training Academy will provide a series of 30-minute training sessions throughout each day of the trade event.
With two demo vehicles on display, attendees can get hands-on to discover more about the opportunities of EV, gain key insights and information.
The EV Training Academy programme will cater for all technicians with both beginner and advanced-level tuition on offer.
The free sessions, delivered alongside training vehicles to add practical elements, include Essential EV Training; HV System Isolation (low-voltage service disconnect) for beginners and Advanced EV Training; as well as Plug-in Charging (proximity pilot circuit), suitable for those more experienced in the EV industry.
The Advanced EV Training session offers independent garages and workshops the opportunity to learn about the proximity pilot circuit used in Type 2 plug-in charging system.
Type 2 is the most common method for charging plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, and much like any electrical system, there’s more than enough potential for faults. These sessions will look at the details of Type 2 charging, including wall boxes and differences between cables, as well as the function, operation, and testing of the proximity pilot circuit.
Kristan Johnstone, project director of Messe Frankfurt, organisers of Automechanika Birmingham said: “We’re pleased to be partnering with the IMI and OVA to deliver what our visitors have requested – further opportunities to get practical guidance and advice with electric and hybrid vehicles.
“By utilising two vehicles alongside both beginner and advanced sessions, we are confident the IMI and OVA experts will ensure visitors learn new tips and tricks, discover more about the opportunities brought about by electrification, and have any burning questions on EVs and hybrids answered by the experts.”
Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI said: “This focus on EV skills is great news because our latest data shows that by 2030, 103,000 IMI TechSafe qualified technicians will be needed to work with electric vehicles in the UK alone. However, we are currently predicting a potential shortfall of 4,500 qualified technicians by 2029, increasing to a massive skills gap of 16,000 by 2032.”
