EV Technicians and Maintenance: Growing need for skilled EV service personnel

In recent years, the automotive industry has witnessed a paradigm shift towards Electric Vehicles (EVs), marking a significant departure from traditional combustion engines. Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining traction in India, with sales more than tripling to over 2.3 lakh units in fiscal year 2022-23 (FY23), according to figures from the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA). 

This expansion is producing new work possibilities in the automobile industry. As the world embraces this sustainable technology, the demand for skilled Electric Vehicle (EV) service technicians and maintenance personnel is rapidly escalating. 

EVs operate on intricate systems requiring specialized knowledge for maintenance and repair. From battery management to software updates, these vehicles necessitate a different skill set compared to conventional cars. With the increasing adoption of EVs globally, the urgent need for proficient technicians who can diagnose, repair, and maintain these cutting-edge vehicles is evident.

According to Akhiro Ueda, CEO, Terra Motors India, the electric revolution in India is not just about the hum of batteries taking over the roar of engines; it's about equipping people with the tools and knowledge to maintain this new fleet.

“The rise of EVs brings with it a responsibility to bridge the emerging skills gap. We're entering a new chapter where the mechanic's wrench must work in concert with the sophistication of software. It's a world where expertise in technology becomes as crucial as mechanical know-how. The commitment goes beyond the vehicles we sell. It's about creating a workforce that's as cutting-edge as the EVs they maintain,” he said. 

Nehal Gupta, Director, AMU Leasing feels that the biggest challenge this sector is facing is that the pace at which EVs are hitting is outstripping the availability of trained technicians. 

“It's not enough to simply keep these vehicles on the move. They must ensure that they are serviced with excellence, affordability, and safety,” Nehal Gupta said.

Sushant Kumar, Managing Director, AMO Mobility is of the view that the push for electrification by the government is a clear signal that the future is electric and with it comes the urgent need for skilled EV technicians. 

“Electric vehicles are a different when compared to traditional cars - they're simpler mechanically but complex in terms of technology. This means that the mechanics of tomorrow need to be as comfortable with a computer as they are with a wrench. The job market is changing too. There may not be a huge surge in new positions, but as the current workforce moves on, there's a huge opportunity for the next generation of service personnel who understand EVs,” Kumar summed up.