Electric Vehicle Qualifications

About the programmes

The motor industry is changing. Electric and hybrid vehicles (EVs) are increasing in popularity and, with this wide adoption, standards and procedures will also change.

IMI Awards' committment to supporting change and development within the industry ensures individuals are provided with the knowledge and skills they need to stay ahead.

Those working with EVs will be required to maintain, repair and service vehicles to the highest possible standards - and have the correct knowledge and understanding of the issues that are emerging. And because IMI Awards qualifications have been developed by expert working groups from within the industry, candidates can be sure that the qualifications are both relevant and respected.

Who are they suitable for?

EV qualifications from IMI Awards are suited to individuals looking for a career in the automotive industry and those already employed as technicians - as well as those working in the fleet, public or emergency sectors.

Gaining EV knowledge will enable technicians and professionals to extend their skill-set - and employers to extend their product offering. This will ensure that, as technology develops, high standards are maintained.

What is the process?

Like all IMI Awards qualifications and accreditations, they are assessed through a combination of online testing plus oral and/or practical assessment(s). Assessments vary depending on the level and learning route taken.

VRQs can be achieved on a full or part-time basis at an IMI Awards approved centre where individuals will be assessed through online and practical assessments. To become ATA accredited, individuals must pass a series of practical assessments and an online knowledge test (at an IMI Awards approved centre).

What are the benefits to employers and individuals?

Successful individuals receive industry recognition for their achievements; proving their skills and knowledge to employers. Gaining a VRQ will mean individuals will receive an IMI Awards certificate. Individuals who gain ATA status will receive an ID card or ATA certificate (depending on the route chosen).

Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQs)

Technical Certificates, or VRQs, provide individuals with the knowledge and skills they need for a successful career in the automotive industry. These qualifications have been developed in consultation with EV manufacturers and the IMI Sector Skills Council.

Electric Vehicle Awareness (Level 1)

Electrically Propelled Vehicle Hazard Management (Level 2)

Routine Maintenance Activities on Electrically Propelled Vehicles (Level 2)

Electrically Propelled Vehicle Repair and Replacement (Level 3)

What is achieved with the VRQ route?

Successful achievement, and receipt of their VRQ certificate, allows individuals to practically demonstrate that they have the knowledge and skills required to maintain and repair EVs. 

Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA)

Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) is a national voluntary scheme which tests the current competence of individuals working in the retail motor industry.

Individuals can choose the full route or a single module based on safe working. Successful individuals will be issued with an ATA ID card (full route) or a certificate (single module) - the cost of which is included in the registration fee.

Electric Vehicle Technician

Hybrid Vehicle Safe Working Module

What is achieved with ATA?

Once accredited, the technician will be entered on to the ATA register of accredited technicians and wil be reassessed every three years to ensure they keep up-to-date with new standards and technologies. The IMI is the governing body for ATA.

Where can I get training?

Click on any of the routes above that is most suitable for your needs, at the bottom of each individual page there is a postcode search to find the nearest centre offering that qualification or ATA route.  Or call us at 01992 519 038 and we will be happy to help.

Train the Trainer - 2 day course at Burton & South Derbyshire College

If you are already an IMI Awards approved centre, and wish to train staff to offer electric vehicle qualifications, Burton & South Derbyshire College are now offering Train the Trainer courses at their centre in Burton. The cost for the 2-day course is £660 (group discounts may be available).

2012 training dates

2 & 3 February 2012
1 & 2 March 2012
3 & 4 May 2012 

To book, please telephone or email Kate Steeples at Burton College: 01283 494 510.

Costs

In addition to the assessment cost(contact your nearest IMI Awards approved centre for exact costs), there is a single fee which includes registration and certification (or ATA ID card, depending on the route taken).

• VRQ (all levels): £30.00
• ATA full route: £50.00
• ATA module: £35.00

If you are an approved IMI Awards centre simply download and complete Form 6 from centres > operating manual. If you have any queries regarding this form please contact your external verifier.

If you are not an approved centre, but would like to offer these qualifications, go to centres > become a centre

To find your nearest IMI Awards approved centre, please see your preferred route and enter your postcode into the centre finder at the bottom of the qualification page.

Electric Vehicle Teaching and Learning Materials

IMI Awards have an agreement with Electude International who have developed Argo, the world's leading e-learning solution for the automotive market. Electude have specifically developed their materials from the IMI Awards qualifications, making them an excellent resource for your candidates and tutors. If you are an approved IMI Awards centre you can view the Electude Hybrid e-learning materials here.