UK’s EV transition drives sector-wide apprentice recruitment

Top employers in the UK automotive sector aim to grow apprenticeship numbers by almost a sixth in 2025 as manufacturers embark on a ‘green growth decade’.

Over £20 billion of investment has been committed to Britain’s transition to all-electric vehicles since 2023. It has brought a demand for a highly skilled workforce specialising in EV technologies.

According to a new survey by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), this demand is reflected by more than 550 new apprentices already having joined the sector this academic year. An additional 740 apprenticeships are still available. Among the major automotive employers surveyed by SMMT, apprenticeship numbers are set to increase by almost a sixth, or 16%.

The rate of growth builds on previous years, with a 40.8% rise in new apprenticeship starting from 2023. According to the latest full year of apprenticeship data, this trend will continue into the next decade.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Britain’s automotive sector is on the cusp of a ‘green growth decade’ with billions being invested in EVs and, crucially, in a new generation of talent to design, build and maintain them.

“There is little doubt that automotive is one of the world’s most exciting industries and, as we seek growth, we need new-skilled apprentices that can grow with us. Our promise is well-paid, rewarding careers for years to come.”

EV tech encompasses a number of areas. These include R&D and manufacturing, supply chain, maintenance, and repairs. The most required positions are for design and development engineers, EV technicians, and specialists in batteries and power electronics.

As the UK aims to ban the sale of new ICE-powered cars from 2035 onwards, apprenticeship training is required to keep up to date with the latest vehicle technologies.

The Skills England and the new Growth & Skills levy introduced in July 2024 was designed to encourage investment in training and skills development by requiring companies to allocate a portion of their wage bill to apprenticeship funding. Employers can then reclaim this contribution to fund their apprenticeship schemes.

According to the SMMT, the levy can back automotive to deliver up to £50 billion growth over the next decade.

National Apprenticeship Week in the UK takes place from February 10-16.