EV Boom Leaves Workshops Exposed: Are Mechanics Prepared?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming mainstream, but are UK workshops and technicians keeping pace? The UK government has invested GBP650 million in grants to encourage EV uptake, offering up to GBP3,750 off the cost of a new car. This push is accelerating the transition to greener, zero-emission transport.
But while demand rises, many garages remain underprepared to service, repair, and maintain these vehicles safely. David Martin, Managing Director at precision tooling and lighting distributor Heamar highlights the risks and shares why EV-safe tooling if mandatory. "According to the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), only 58,800 technicians are currently qualified to work on EVs.
That equates to just 24% of the UK's automotive workforce. "With EV adoption rising rapidly, this figure is far too low. And while many workshops are already taking on EV jobs, the reality is that too few mechanics are properly trained or equipped to work safely on these vehicles.
"One of the biggest gaps lies in tooling, some garages are investing in EV training but overlooking their tools. Too often, there's a misconception that equipment designed for petrol-era systems is suitable for EVs, when it's not. "Using the wrong crimpers, strippers, or ratchets can damage high-voltage cables, leading to poor connections that may fail under load.
More critically, standard non-insulated tools expose technicians to electrical hazards that petrol-powered work never presented. "A useful way to think about it is this: you wouldn't try to put a petrol nozzle into an EV charging port, so why would you use petrol-era tools on an EV system? "The consequences of overlooking safety or using outdated tools can be serious.
Earlier this year, a UK garage was fined GBP204,000 after two workers developed Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) from improper tool use. The message is clear, workshops must invest in the right tools to protect both their staff and their business." What is the solution for garages?
"It's essential that garages invest in both upskilling their workforce and upgrading their tooling if they want to be prepared for an all-EV future. "IMI data suggests there could be a shortfall of around 3,000 qualified EV technicians by 2031, driven by the skills gap. Automotive businesses must act now, training more technicians is critical if the growing number of EV owners are to have access to safe, local servicing.
"When it comes to tooling, the risks of relying on outdated equipment are entirely avoidable, but only if garages commit to the right solutions. "EVs require specialist equipment designed to handle high-voltage systems safely and effectively. That means insulated, calibrated and compliant tools built to meet modern safety standards.
Anything less puts both technicians and customers at risk." What EV-safe tools are essential for modern workshops? "To help garages future-proof their operations, we've identified a core set of EV-safe tools that every workshop should consider as part of their transition to electric servicing.
"These tools are designed to protect technicians, ensure compliance and prevent costly mistakes when working with high-voltage EV systems:
- Insulated Sockets & Wrenches: Including Bi-Hex sockets, click wrenches and standard insulated wrenches.
These enable safe handling of high-voltage components without the risk of electric shock, while maintaining torque accuracy on sensitive fixings.
- Cutting, Stripping & Crimping Tools: Insulated wire strippers, crimp tools and connector sets are precision-engineered for EV cabling, protecting conductors and ensuring strong, reliable connections that meet modern safety standards.
- Diagnostic & Measurement Tools: Multimeters and EV-specific test instruments, calibrated for high-voltage applications, deliver accurate readings and diagnostics essential for vehicle performance and workshop safety.
- Protective & Support Equipment: Insulated screwdrivers, pliers, and torque tools provide vital protection and precision when working within live or sensitive EV systems.
"These represent the baseline for a safe and compliant EV-ready workshop."
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