Make sure your workplace is ready for the future of vehicle technology

Leicestershire-based automotive sector businesses and their employees are set to benefit from a multi-million-pound investment in skills training to help them take advantage of the growing demand for cleaner, greener transport.

SMB College Group’s dynamic new Hyve project[1] is perfect for anyone wishing to learn more about hydrogen vehicle technology, electric and hybrid vehicles, and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assisted Systems).

Hyve training will boost awareness and deliver cultural change as well as address key specific training elements, including compliance and safety; service, maintenance, and repair skills; warranty and breakdown; and advanced driver assistance systems and calibration.

SMB College Group is working in partnership with North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, Leicester College and Loughborough College on the exciting new project.

The unique collaboration between further education partners is specifically designed to make it easier for automotive sector businesses to ensure their workforce has the specialist skills that it needs to thrive in the 21st-century environment.

And with a range of courses available at competitive prices, it’s a fantastic way to upskill yourself or your team and make sure your workplace is ready for the future of vehicle technology.

Principal Dawn Whitemore explained: “The climate emergency and the UK’s aim to achieve Net Zero status by 2050 provides a strong stimulus to switch to using cleaner, greener road transport.

“So we are working towards the common goal of inspiring and empowering the next generation of automotive engineers.

“We want to be recognised as the first-choice provider of knowledge and skills training for automotive and logistics businesses across Leicestershire as they embrace the low-carbon technologies that deliver cleaner, greener transport.”

Specialist training


Hyve offers highly targeted specialist training and delivery is flexible to meet the needs of individual employers and their teams

The Hyve project is designed to deliver infrastructure, awareness, and skills training in hydrogen and electric vehicles with a focus on HGVs and LGVs for businesses based within the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership area.

Dawn said: “Hyve offers highly targeted specialist training and delivery is flexible to meet the needs of individual employers and their teams, and true progression from CPD to apprenticeships, degree-level studies and beyond if required.

“Businesses will benefit from access to advice on the best study routes and qualifications for their workforce, as well as access to the industry expertise on their doorstep within Europe’s leading logistics location.

“Bespoke facilities and equipment ensure that Hyve students can acquire skills that are fit for the rapidly evolving automotive sector and businesses have access to the latest technology and resources.

“Firms can benefit from advice on funding for apprenticeships, whether organisations pay the Apprenticeship Levy or not, and can find out how levy-payers can share funds to support training across their supply chain.”

Inspire and engage

The replacement of vehicles powered by the internal combustion engine with those that rely on low-carbon powertrains is gathering pace, and HEVs and PHEVs are expected to account for 27 per cent of new vehicle registrations by the end of 2023.

As the process of switching to BEVs accelerates, and emerging technology such as hydrogen becomes more accessible, the UK will increasingly need more skilled individuals working in the manufacture and maintenance of electric and hydrogen vehicles.

Dawn concluded: “To avoid future skills gaps that could impede progress, it’s essential that we upskill and retrain employees in the automotive and logistics sectors in BEV technology and inspire and engage young people with ideas for future careers in low carbon transportation.

“So if you are new to the vehicle engineering industry or a professional looking to upskill, our brand new Hyve courses are perfect for you.”

Register your interest

Are you interested in becoming one of the next generation of hydrogen electric vehicle practitioners? Upskill yourself and your team with SMB College Group.

Click here[2] for more information about the range of courses available and to register your details.

References

  1. ^ SMB College Group’s dynamic new Hyve project (www.smbcollegegroup.ac.uk)
  2. ^ here (www.smbcollegegroup.ac.uk)