UK automotive sector calls for expanded technical and vocational training

The UK automotive sector is facing a critical need for expanded vocational and technical training to support evolving technologies. The North East Automotive Alliance has expressed strong support for a government education overhaul that introduces technical pathways for 14-year-olds. This policy aims to address acute skills shortages in engineering and advanced manufacturing by integrating hands-on learning with core academic subjects.

However, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has warned that government investment must extend beyond manufacturing and the supply chain. While the DRIVE35 initiative supports new automotive technology, the IMI emphasizes that there is a significant skills gap in servicing and maintaining these vehicles. Without investment in the workforce responsible for repair and recovery, the gap between vehicle complexity—driven by electrification and automated systems—and technician competence could pose risks to road safety and market stability.