Australia’s growing electric vehicle (EV) market is facing a pressing challenge: the shortage of skilled mechanics capable of servicing and repairing these high-tech vehicles. A recent report by NRMA Insurance reveals that over 60% of EV owners in Australia are worried about the lack of qualified repairers in their area. The report, titled Changing Gears: The Future of Battery Safety, Sustainability, and Electric Vehicle Repairs, sheds light on the growing gap between the rise of EVs and the availability of skilled repair professionals.
According to the NRMA Insurance study, 90% of current and potential EV owners agree that it is crucial for their insurers to have access to qualified EV repairers. As the country’s EV market continues to expand, the urgency of addressing this issue increases. With over 80 different EV models already available in Australia, and many more expected soon, the demand for qualified mechanics is expected to grow significantly.
The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) predicts that most vehicles in Australia will be electric by 2050, highlighting the critical need for a workforce equipped to handle the transition. However, the shortage of skilled mechanics is not the only concern. The report also points to significant environmental issues surrounding EVs, particularly battery recycling.
Environmental Concerns: Battery Recycling and Disposal
The report reveals that 68% of Australians are concerned about the environmental impact of EV battery recycling and disposal. Only 30% of respondents expressed confidence in the feasibility of reusing and recycling batteries. This skepticism extends to the use of second-hand components, with less than one-third (31%) of Australians willing to use a recycled EV battery.
A Shift Towards Software and Diagnostics
NRMA Insurance CEO, Julie Batch, emphasized the challenges facing the automotive services industry as it adapts to the rise of EVs. “The shift to EVs is transforming the automotive services industry at a time when it is already under pressure due to a skills shortage,” Batch stated. She further explained that EVs are sophisticated, software-driven machines that require specialized training.
While hybrid vehicles have helped familiarize the industry with high-voltage systems, Batch stressed that the industry needs to scale up training programs to keep pace with advancing technology. “In the future, auto repairs will be about diagnostics, software updates, and battery management. We need to rethink how we attract and train talent to ensure there’s a steady pipeline of skilled professionals.”
NRMA’s Commitment to EV Repair Training
In response to the growing demand for EV-specific skills, NRMA Insurance is evolving its repair network. The company is incorporating EV-specific equipment in its workshops and has launched a training program for its technicians to ensure they are prepared for the unique challenges of working with electric vehicles.
