As the UK moves toward its 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, the conversation around electric vehicle (EV) adoption has largely focused on manufacturing and infrastructure development. However, one area that is often overlooked is the automotive aftermarket—the garages, dealerships, and supply chains that will need to service, repair, and maintain this new generation of vehicles, as well as the people behind these businesses.
How EVs Are Reshaping the Automotive Aftermarket Workforce
While EVs generally require less routine maintenance, they introduce a new set of technical challenges that demand a different skillset from automotive professionals. Key areas of impact include:
- Fewer traditional engine repairs – With no internal combustion engine, there is reduced demand for skills related to oil changes, exhaust systems, and fuel injection repairs.
- Higher demand for battery diagnostics and repair – Technicians must be trained to diagnose, replace, and optimise EV batteries, which can account for up to 50% of an EV’s total value.
- Software-driven servicing – Many EV maintenance issues are related to software updates, sensor calibration, and advanced diagnostics, rather than purely mechanical repairs.
The Biggest Hiring Gaps in the EV Aftermarket
EV Technicians and High-Voltage Specialists
Most traditional technicians aren’t trained to work with high-voltage EV systems, yet this is quickly becoming a must-have skill in garages and service centres. Without proper training, even basic repairs can be a challenge. Forward-thinking workshops and dealerships are already investing in EV certification programs to upskill their teams. The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), for example, offers accredited courses to help bridge this skills gap.
EV Parts and Supply Chain Experts
EVs are shaking up traditional supply chains, especially when it comes to sourcing and handling batteries and electronic components. Businesses need specialists in procurement and logistics to manage this transition smoothly. Recruiting supply chain experts with experience in battery remanufacturing and sustainable materials will be critical to keeping EV servicing efficient and cost-effective.
EV Customer Support and Sales Specialists
Many consumers are still hesitant about EVs, with concerns about battery life, charging infrastructure, and long-term costs. Car buyers need talented sales professionals who are experts in these areas, able to confidently answer their questions and guide them through the transition from petrol and diesel vehicles. Training sales teams to understand EV incentives, charging options, and ownership benefits will be key to improving customer confidence and increasing adoption.
How Businesses Can Prepare for the Shift
All you need to do is look around you on the roads to see that the transition to EVs is already happening, and businesses need to take action now to avoid falling behind. Steps to future-proof recruitment include:
- Developing long-term workforce planning strategies to anticipate skills shortages and prevent future hiring challenges.
- Adjusting recruitment marketing to position EV-related roles as exciting, future-focused careers.
- Providing structured EV training to ensure technicians and service staff are equipped with high-voltage and software diagnostics skills.
- Hiring from adjacent industries such as energy, aerospace, and electronics, where professionals already have relevant technical expertise.
What’s next?
The EV revolution isn’t just about new technology – it’s about building a workforce that can support and sustain it.
As EV adoption accelerates, the skills required in automotive servicing, sales, and supply chain management are changing rapidly. At Holt Automotive, we specialise in connecting businesses with the right talent to navigate this industry shift.
If your business needs skilled professionals to support the EV transition, get in touch with us today.
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