Summary
- Top UK automotive firms are investing in a skills drive to boost apprenticeship numbers by nearly a sixth by 2025
- Almost £20 billion has been invested in Britain’s EV transition in the last two years
- More than 700 new apprenticeships are available from top UK automotive businesses
- Skills transition is a top priority for the industry to keep up with the latest automobile technologies
- SMMT’s Vision 2035 aims to provide over £50 billion in green growth over the next decade through an industrial strategy centered on UK automotive.
Article
The automotive industry in the UK is looking towards a “green growth decade,” with significant investments in electric vehicles (EVs) and a commitment to boosting apprenticeships in the sector. Top UK automotive firms are planning to increase apprenticeship numbers by nearly a sixth by 2025, with more than 700 new apprenticeships available. These apprenticeships offer opportunities in design engineering, EV technology, battery and vehicle software expertise, reflecting the industry’s shift towards new technologies.
The UK has seen a significant amount of investment in the EV transition, totaling almost £20 billion in the last two years. This investment has created a demand for a highly skilled workforce that is knowledgeable in the latest technologies. More than 550 new apprentices have already joined the industry, with 740 apprenticeships still available. The growth in apprenticeship rates is expected to continue, providing well-paying and fulfilling careers in the automotive industry over the next decade.
The SMMT Chief Executive, Mike Hawes, emphasized the importance of developing new-skilled apprentices to support the growth of the automotive sector, particularly in the EV segment. The industry offers a range of opportunities, from research and development to production, maintenance, and repair. In-demand positions include design engineers, EV technicians, and specialists in battery and power electronics. With the increasing focus on zero-emission vehicles in the UK market, there is a growing demand for skilled workers in the sector.
To support the transition towards decarbonization and green growth, the automotive industry must ensure that its workforce is equipped to drive these changes. Training programs need to keep up with the latest automobile technologies to design, produce, test, and maintain electric vehicles. Skills England and the new Growth & Skills Levy will play a crucial role in improving access to automotive training for firms of all sizes across the UK, aligning with the industry’s goal of achieving £50 billion in green growth over the next decade.
The industry’s vision for 2035 focuses on developing local talent, increasing the visibility of STEM disciplines in education, providing upskilling opportunities for automotive businesses, and reforming apprenticeship programs to support workers in key areas such as electrification and digitization. These initiatives are aimed at driving the industry towards a greener future and supporting the transition to a more sustainable automotive sector in the UK. Overall, the commitment to green growth and skills development underscores the industry’s readiness to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future.
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