LKQ Academy expands electric and hybrid training
LKQ Academy is making 500 more places available on its electric and hybrid training courses this year.
It will now offer 1,500 training places during 2026 compared to 1,000 last year to help the industry plug a widening skills gap.
Courses available range from basic electric vehicle awareness to full competency, with its ‘Becoming and EV Workshop’ course designed to promote safety and awareness among all colleagues working within an EV-capable repairer, while Levels 2, 3, and 4 Award courses cover maintenance, repair and replacement, diagnosis, and testing.
The announcement comes after research from the Institute of the Motor Industry found that just 26% of UK technicians are qualified to work on electric vehicles (EVs).
Growing challenge
Lee Chapman, head of support and LKQ Academy, said: “The IMI’s research highlights a growing challenge for the independent aftermarket with EV capability still limited, unevenly distributed and at risk of falling further behind. If that gap isn’t addressed, more garages will be forced to turn work away or rely on third parties, and that’s not good for independent workshops or motorists.
“We have a responsibility to help close that gap and with LKQ Academy sites located across the UK, we’re able to bring EV and hybrid training closer to workshops in every region not just big towns and city centres.
“By expanding EV training capacity in 2026, we’re also helping more garages build the confidence and capability to keep work in-house and stay competitive.”
