Navigating the EV revolution: understanding the difference between IMI EV training course levels and why specialist tools are non-negotiable

The automotive world is undergoing a seismic shift and electric vehicles (EVs) are leading the charge! In 2024, battery, plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles represented 52.8% of new car registrations, compared to petrol which was 42.2%.

As EVs become increasingly common on our roads, the need for skilled technicians who can safely and effectively, service and repair them is skyrocketing. But working on EVs is a different ballgame compared to traditional combustion engine cars. That’s where specialist training and tools come into play.

In this blog, we’ll break down the different IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) electric vehicle training courses and explain why investing in specialist tools isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a must-have for anyone working with EVs.

IMI EV training: your roadmap to expertise

The IMI offers a structured approach to EV training, catering to various roles within the automotive industry. Think of it as a ladder, with each level building upon the last, taking you from basic awareness to advanced technical training.

Level 1 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Awareness: building a foundation

• Who’s it for? Level 1 is your entry point. Perfect for anyone in the automotive sector who needs a general understanding of EVs but isn’t directly involved in technical work. This includes front of house, sales teams, valeters and parts advisors.
• What you’ll learn: The basics of EV technology, how to identify different types of EVs, safe charging procedures, understanding potential hazards and essential safety precautions.
• Key takeaway: Awareness is the first step! This course equips non-technical staff to work safely around EVs.

Level 2 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Routine Maintenance Activities: keeping EVs running smoothly

• Who’s it for? Level 2 is for technicians performing routine maintenance on EVs.
• What you’ll learn: Essential maintenance tasks, inspecting and maintaining EV components, servicing procedures, using the right tools and safe working practices during maintenance (excluding live high-voltage work).
• Key takeaway: Focuses on the everyday upkeep of EVs and ensuring technicians can perform maintenance safely.

Level 3 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement: deeper dive into EVs repairs

• Who’s it for? Level 3 is for technicians involved in diagnosing, repairing and replacing EV components and systems.
• What you’ll learn: Advanced fault diagnosis, repairing and replacing high-voltage components (again, not live work), ensuring post-repair vehicle safety, and advanced diagnostic techniques.
• Key takeaway: For technicians tackling more complex EV repairs, focusing on system-level understanding and safe repair procedures (still avoiding live high-voltage work).

Level 4 Award in the Diagnosis, Testing and Repair of Electric/Hybrid Vehicles and Components): the pinnacle of EV expertise

• Who’s it for? Level 4 is for master technicians, senior technicians and engineers needing the highest level of EV expertise.
• What you’ll learn: Live high-voltage working practices, advanced diagnostics and testing, repairing and replacing components in live high-voltage systems, and a deep understanding of complex EV technologies and safety standards.
• Key takeaway: The most advanced qualification for technicians working on live high-voltage EV systems. This is for the experts!

Level 2 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Hazard Management for Emergency and Recovery Personnel: safety first for first responders

• Who’s it for? Specifically designed for emergency services and roadside recovery teams.
• What you’ll learn: How to safely manage hazards at accident scenes involving EVs, working around high and low voltage systems in damaged vehicles, and understanding EV drive train systems.
• Key takeaway: Equipping emergency personnel with the critical skills to handle potentially dangerous situations involving damaged EVs.

Why specialist tools are essential for EV work

Working on EVs isn’t just like working on a regular car with a different engine. The high-voltage systems introduce a new level of risk and the components themselves are unique. Here’s why specialist tools are essential:

1. Safety – high voltage is lethal voltage: EVs operate at voltages that can be fatal. Specialist tools are designed with enhanced insulation and non-conductive materials to protect technicians from electric shock and arc flash incidents. These aren’t your standard wrenches!
2. Unique components demand specific tools: From high-voltage batteries requiring specialised lifting equipment and diagnostic tools, to electric motors, inverters and charging systems needing specific testers and multimeters, EVs are packed with unique components that standard tools simply aren’t designed for.
3. Protecting sensitive electronics: EVs are electronic marvels relying on delicate ECUs and sensors. Specialist diagnostic equipment is crucial for communicating with and testing these systems without causing damage. Think of it as using the right language to talk to the car’s brain.
4. Compliance, certification and peace of mind: Industry standards, like those set by the IMI, and manufacturer guidelines often mandate the use of certified specialist tools. Using the wrong tools can invalidate warranties and create serious liability issues. Plus, using the right tools ensures you’re working safely and effectively.
5. Accuracy and efficiency in diagnostics: EV diagnostic tools are specifically designed to read fault codes and analyse the complex data streams within EV systems. This means faster, more accurate diagnoses and ultimately, quicker and more cost-effective repairs.

What EV level do you need?

The rise of EVs presents exciting opportunities in the automotive industry, but it also demands a commitment to specialised training and equipment. IMI EV training courses provide a clear pathway to building the necessary skills and knowledge, while specialist tools are the essential instruments for safe and effective EV servicing and repair.

If you’re serious about working with electric vehicles, investing in both IMI training and specialist tools is not just a good idea – it’s the smart, safe and future-proof way to navigate the EV revolution.

So what EV level do you need? Do you need awareness of EVs or need to become a master at working on electrical components?

If you’re still unsure, get in touch with us and we will help you decide which is best for you. Or alternatively, book your IMI EV course today.