A shortage of qualified electric vehicle (EV) technicians could slow the transition to cleaner transport, industry bodies have warned. Logistics UK says fleet operators may hesitate to invest in electric vehicles if they are uncertain about access to skilled engineers capable of maintaining them.
New figures from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) show that by the end of the third quarter of 2025, only around 25% of technicians held the qualifications required to work safely on EVs. The data also highlights regional imbalances, with most accredited staff employed by franchised dealerships rather than independent garages. Worryingly, the number of technicians gaining EV certification fell by almost 13% in Q3 compared with the start of the year.
The IMI believes inconsistent government messaging on electric motoring, coupled with wider economic pressures, has dampened enthusiasm for training. Its forecasts suggest the current pace of upskilling will not meet demand linked to the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle targets. Without rapid progress, the shortfall in trained technicians could widen significantly over the next decade, particularly affecting the growing second-hand EV market.
Logistics UK has urged ministers to act, arguing that vehicle downtime directly impacts commercial viability. Alongside expanding charging infrastructure, the organisation says greater investment in technical skills is essential to give businesses the confidence to electrify their fleets and keep vehicles operating efficiently.
