University College Isle of Man (UCM) has hosted a new Electric Vehicle (EV) training initiative with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), with sessions being delivered in partnership with the Isle of Man Government’s Climate Change Transformation Team (CCTT) after a need was recognised by local businesses to grow specialist handling and repair capabilities for EVs.
The three-day course, delivered by Pro-Tech Automotive Academy, a UK-based training specialist who are partnered with the IMI to deliver their TechSafe Hybrid and EV training courses, equips learners with the knowledge and the skills to work safely on Hybrid vehicles and EVs whilst carrying out diagnostic, testing and repair activities. This includes vehicles that may have or had damage to their high energy/electrical system.
Whilst the Combined Course Level 2 & 3 is aimed at technicians powering down and isolating an EV battery and removing and refitting components, the Bespoke course is aimed to provide training around the IMI assessment form and the assessment of safety of damaged EVs for off-Island transport.
In October, more hybrid and EVs were registered on the Island than diesel vehicles. This year 22% of all new car registrations are electric and hybrid. This training initiative not only supports Isle of Man residents who own or service electric vehicles by ensuring access to qualified technicians, but also empowers local businesses to future-proof their operations and workforce with the skills needed for a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
Local business representative, Richard Hulme from Intact Insurance Isle of Man said: “It was important the issue of shipping damaged and faulty EV and Hybrid vehicles was brought to the attention of Government. Our salvage agents highlighted the issue of not being able to ship damaged or faulty vehicles off Island and that needed further repair or scrapping, creating a problem not just for the insurance industry but wider local motor trade network.”
He continued: “A lot of time and effort has been put in by representatives of the local motor industry, repairers, engineers, insurers and shipping companies, working closely with government to ensure a solution is in place that allows these vehicles to be shipped safely. The solution will enable insurers to continue covering these types of vehicles for Isle of Man residents with the knowledge that there is a safe pathway through skilled local garages/repairers and, if required, UK networks via predetermined shipping protocols to ensure insurers and garages can deal with customers’ vehicle claims and repairs.”
CCTT’s Steve Hull said: “This is a significant milestone for the Island as we transition to cleaner methods of transportation in line with the Climate Change Plan 22-27 helping to upskill businesses to ensure a more sustainable future for the Isle of Man. It’s been a real pleasure to work with the teams at IMI, the Pro-Tech Academy and UCM, together with local businesses, who have all collaborated to make this new upskilling course possible.”
UCM’s Motor Vehicle staff have also received upskilling, enabling them to deliver future sessions independently. This ensures the course’s long-term sustainability while supporting the Isle of Man’s broader environmental goals.
UCM’s Kerry Birchall, who manages the Adult Learning programme, added: “Bringing this course to life has been a fantastic collaborative effort, and it’s great to see what’s been achieved through the hard work and commitment of everyone involved. This first round of training has empowered local mechanics with essential EV safety and diagnostic skills—skills that are not just future-focused, but vital right now. It’s a game-changer for the Island’s automotive sector, and we’re thrilled supporting this new initiative. We can’t wait to roll out more sessions and continue building a skilled, sustainable workforce for the Isle of Man.”
The next training dates are 9 – 11 December and vehicle technicians can register for the course here.