The commercial vehicle industry is experiencing its most significant transformation in decades. As fleets across the UK and globally embrace electric commercial vehicles (EVs), the shift is not only changing the trucks, vans, and buses on our roads, it’s fundamentally reshaping the skills, training, and recruitment needs of the sector. In particular, the growing EV technician shortage is creating new challenges for employers seeking skilled staff. For employers and candidates alike, this transition presents both challenges and opportunities that will shape the industry for years to come.
The rise of EV in commercial fleets
Driven by UK Government net-zero targets, cost-saving initiatives, and growing corporate sustainability commitments, operators are rapidly moving away from diesel and towards fully electric and hybrid fleets. From light commercial vehicles in urban deliveries to HGVs serving regional routes, EV technology has moved beyond the trial stage and is now becoming a commercial necessity.
New skills in high demand for EV maintenance
The growth of EV fleets has created urgent demand for specialist technical skills. Employers are increasingly seeking EV technicians and engineers with expertise in:
- High-voltage systems and electrical safety protocols
- Battery maintenance, diagnostics, and replacement
- Software integration and telematics systems
- Charging infrastructure installation and servicing
While traditional mechanical skills remain valuable, EV maintenance requires deeper knowledge of electrical and electronic systems, making cross-training and upskilling essential.
Upskilling the current commercial vehicle workforce
For many businesses, transitioning to EV isn’t about replacing existing staff, it’s about upskilling technicians to handle new technology. Increasingly we are seeing our clients offering EV training as part of recruitment packages to attract talent and retain staff.
Common approaches include:
- Manufacturer-led training and IMI-accredited EV qualifications
- Cross-training experienced diesel technicians in EV systems
- Apprenticeships with EV-specific modules from the start
This strategy is a win-win for businesses and their staff alike. Providing additional EV training future-proofs fleet maintenance capability whilst also showing a commitment to employee development.
The EV technician shortage and recruitment challenges
As the shift to EV accelerates, recruitment in the EV sector faces significant obstacles. The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) reports that only 24% of UK vehicle technicians are currently trained to work safely on EVs. This EV technician shortage could result in a shortfall of 3,000 qualified EV technicians by 2031, rising to 16,000 by 2035 if training doesn’t keep up with demand.
Other challenges include:
- Competition with the passenger EV sector for skilled workers
- Salary inflation as demand outpaces supply
- The need to recognise transferable skills from industries like automotive EV, plant, rail and many more
For employers, these pressures make it vital to work with specialist commercial vehicle recruiters who understand both technical requirements and the speed of industry change. Addressing the EV technician shortage proactively is crucial to staying competitive in this rapidly evolving market.
Opportunities in the electric commercial vehicle sector
While the transition presents challenges, it also opens doors for both businesses and candidates ready to lead the charge.
For employers:
- Build an EV-ready employer brand to attract forward-thinking talent
- Position ahead of competitors through early EV adoption
- Promote sustainability credentials to clients and partners
For candidates:
- Secure career stability in a high-demand specialism
- Work on cutting-edge EV technology across multiple vehicle types
- Contribute directly to environmental and net-zero goals
The role of specialist commercial vehicle recruiters
At Kemp Recruitment, we know EV isn’t a future consideration, it’s a current reality. We partner with employers and candidates to:
- Identify the right technical and cultural fit for EV-focused roles
- Match transferable skills to new opportunities in the EV sector
- Support businesses in building EV-ready teams for the future
With over 15 years of experience in the commercial vehicle industry, we understand the evolving demands and can help businesses tackle the EV technician shortage while staying ahead of the curve.
Conclusion
The transition to electric commercial vehicles is already reshaping recruitment, skills, and career opportunities. Those who adapt early, whether through upskilling, strategic hiring, or technology adoption will be best placed to benefit.
If you’re an employer looking to build your EV-ready team, give us a call on 0330 440 2323 to find out how we can help you source top-quality talent. Or if you’re looking to take your commercial vehicle career into the future, click here to find out more about our latest roles.
References
-
Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) – EV Technician Shortage
-
MEENZ – EV Technician Shortage Threatens UK’s Automotive Future
-
UK Government – Department for Transport – Transport Decarbonisation Plan
