Hybrid and Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular, but there are very few mechanics who have the necessary training to work on them.
This is because Hybrid and Electric vehicles are a relatively new technology, and most mechanics have not had the chance to learn about them yet.
As a result, many insurance companies are now refusing to insure garages if they do not have at least one mechanic with Hybrid or Electric vehicle training.
It has become apparent that many insurance companies are refusing to insure garages if the mechanics working there do not have this specific type of training.
This is causing a lot of problems for garage owners.
This is not the only problem that garages will start facing.
MTC has recently been in contact with the DVSA and they informed us that there may be changes coming into place very soon, with regards to MOT testers, testing Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.
There has been many technicians suffering injuries whilst testing Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.
The MOT Testers have got hurt whilst these types of vehicles are on the ramp, this is due to when the Electric vehicles battery runs low, it automatically starts up, causing MOT Testers to get hurt.
Due to health and safety reasons we truly believe that all MOT testers will need at least a Level 1 Hybrid and Electrical Vehicle Training to carry out MOT’s on theses types of vehicles.
There are now over 500,000 zero and ultra-low emission vehicles on the UK road and the market for zero emission cars is increasing day by day.
We also believe that the DVSA will possibly roll out the new rules within the next six months, because of the amount of MOT testers suffering injuries due to the health and safety of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.
Reasons why Insurance Companies are unlikely to cover you
Insurance Companies are unlikely to cover you for these reasons:
- Mechanics/technicians getting seriously hurt whilst working on EV’s
- The risk of fires, due to the high voltage the EV’s contain
- A risk of customers getting hurt whilst in the garage
The high voltages used in Hybrid and Electric vehicles can pose a serious threat to workers if they don’t have the proper training.
It helps to power the car and keep it running.
When mechanics are working on Electric vehicles, they need to be aware of the dangers involved with direct current.
There are several risks that come with working with DC, including electrocution, fires and even death.
Mechanics who are not properly trained in Hybrid and Electric vehicle repair can put themselves and others at risk by working on these vehicles.
The Best Way Forward
With all the new changes and new proposals, it is now time to get ahead and book your Hybrid and Electrical Vehicle Training.
MTC offer a range of courses, that many MOT Testers have already taken and have the qualification ready in place for when your insurance is due for renewal and the possible changes come into force.
Hybrid and Electrical Training Courses
- Hybrid Training Course, Level 1 – Raise awareness
- Hybrid Training Course, Level 2 Light Vehicles
- Hybrid Training Course, Level 2 Buses
- Hybrid Training Course, Level 2 Heavy Goods Vehicles
- Hybrid Training Course Level 3 – Cars
Information about our Hybrid Courses and what we will cover:
- Safe system shut down and recommissioning.
- Methods of safe component and system test and measurement.
- Using and interpreting vehicle wiring diagrams & tech data for speedy and efficient repairs.
- Hybrid propulsion and energy generation systems.
- Brush less 3 Phase Motor form and function.
- DC and AC (3 phase) Control Systems.
- Using OEM, Pass-thru and Aftermarket Scan Tools for in vehicle system and component diagnosis.
- How to work safely on hybrid and related vehicle systems.
- How to carry out maintenance and repair activities when working on Hybrid vehicles.
- Construction and function of battery modules and related components
It is anticipated that Level 3 will be the minimum requirement in the future. Best practice dictates that each technical staff member should be qualified to at least level 2 (service technician).
Diagnostic technicians should be qualified to level 3 (for fault diagnosis and removal, test and refit of high voltage systems).
