One challenge stood out above all others when I first started working on EVs: parts availability. Back in 2018, sourcing the parts needed to service and repair EVs was insanely difficult.
It was a problem that wasn’t going away on its own. I felt compelled to establish our own parts department. This not only ensured we could meet our own needs but also allowed us to supply other workshops across the UK.
Fast forward to 2025, and the EV market has grown dramatically. There are now 1.3 million fully electric cars on UK roads, alongside an additional two million plug-in hybrids. Despite this remarkable growth, sourcing EV parts remains a significant challenge for many independent garages. Given the size of the market, it’s clear there’s still work to be done.
That’s why I’m excited about our new partnership with a large national parts supplier. Together, we’re working to ensure every garage, regardless of size, has access to the parts they need to service and repair EVs.
Of course, having the right parts is only part of the solution.
Over the years, I’ve noticed a worrying trend: many ‘qualified’ EV technicians still struggle with basic diagnostic procedures that should be second nature at IMI Level 3 or 4. Too often, EV courses focus on passing exams rather than equipping technicians with the practical skills they need to handle real-world challenges confidently.
The industry needs more than just qualifications; it needs real-world training that instils the skills and confidence required to tackle the complexities of EVs – and ICE for that matter. At Cleevely Group’s recently IMI-approved training centre, that’s exactly what we aim to deliver.
For those already holding IMI Level 2, 3, or 4 qualifications, our At Ease with EV training course has become a firm favourite. We cover high-voltage battery testing, interlocks, charging issues, EV servicing, common problems, and dive into Tesla’s service mode.
As EV warranties end and they come into the aftermarket, the demand for skilled technicians and reliable parts will increase. For those willing to embrace the opportunities, the future is bright – despite what the naysayers and negative headlines might suggest.
For more from this series, click here.
