Training to transition truck technicians to EV
Industry body Logistics UK is to launch IMI-accredited courses to equip heavy vehicle technicians to work on high-voltage electric vehicles.
Logistics UK has formed a partnership with SMB College (Stephenson, Brooksby and Melton) in Leicestershire, and Bristol College, to launch a new programme of learning and development for logistics engineers. The L2 and L3 electric vehicle maintenance training programmes are designed to upskill existing vehicle technicians and ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills to keep vehicles roadworthy, and identify faults as soon as they occur.
David Jordan, Logistics UK’s deputy operations director, explained that the launch was driven by the legal requirement for large goods vehicles to undergo regular roadworthiness inspections.
“This means that operators must ensure all faults are identified and repaired in a timely manner. The new generation of electric trucks relies on different technologies from those found in traditional combustion engines and, without appropriate information and training, this could prove problematic for conventionally trained mechanics, who could find themselves without the necessary skills to service and repair the new vehicles,” he said.
The new courses, which last for two days, include modules on working safely on an electric/hybrid vehicle, using information to carry out the task, knowledge on carrying out repairs on high energy electrical systems and recording information and making suitable recommendations, all delivered in a highly practical way with lots of hands-on training throughout.
This will lead to an IMI Level 2/3 qualification in Electric/ Hybrid Vehicle Routine Maintenance, and the inclusion on the IMI TechSafe register. More information is at: logistics.org.uk/evimiaward
