Electric vehicle qualifications have risen only 6% on the previous quarter and are failing to keep up with demand, according to the latest EV TechSafe Technician Forecast from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).
While the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on UK roads is increasing, only 35% of technicians are qualified to repair and service them safely, it found.
Some 2,792 technicians gained an EV qualification in Q4 2025, which is 6% higher than Q3 2025, but 17% lower than the same period in 2024. In addition, 74,734 technicians or 35% of the UK technician workforce is EV qualified
The IMI expects around 2,394 new certifications in Q1 2026 with projected demand exceeding supply by more than 43,000 technicians by 2035.
As a result, the IMI is continuing to call on the government to mandate IMI TechSafe to ensure both the automotive workforce and UK road users remain safe.
While it’s already recognised as the practical mechanism to audit workforce competence, it could, therefore, be the right solution to help government, industry and the public manage the risks and opportunities of new vehicle technologies.
Emma Carrigy, Head of Research and Public Affairs at the IMI, said:
“EV technician numbers are still rising, but at a comparatively slower rate year-on-year, and not quickly enough to meet projected demand. Without a faster increase in training uptake, there is a very serious risk that technician availability will become a barrier to EV adoption, slowing the UK’s transition zero emissions.
“Pressure on technician capacity is already increasing and there is now a very limited window in which to expand training, support employers and encourage more technicians to enter EV repair and maintenance roles.”
“Unless this qualification trajectory changes dramatically, there will be a dangerous skills shortfall in just five years – just in time for the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles to be phased out.
“This data underlines the urgency for a solution to ensure both the automotive workforce and UK road users remain safe.”
Graphic courtesy of the IMI
