IMI warns of dangerous shortage in ADAS-qualified techs

New analysis from The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has revealed that just two per cent of UK technicians are qualified to repair and maintain vehicles featuring Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

ADAS-equipped vehicles now account for 13% of the UK car parc, but there are just 4,425 individuals that are IMI TechSafe registered to work on them.

Kevin Finn, Executive Chair of the IMI, said, “The proportion of ADAS-equipped vehicles has grown from 11% in January 2024 to 13% in July, yet there has not been a similar increase in the proportion of ADAS-trained technicians.

“As the proportion of vehicles featuring ADAS accelerates, ahead of the introduction of fully automated vehicles, it is critical that more technicians are trained to work on vehicles with this technology.”

ADAS is the pre-cursor for fully automated vehicles, which could be on the UK roads as early as 2026 after the Automated Vehicles Bill 2024 received Royal Assent in May 2024.

The IMI launched Level 2 and Level 3 ADAS qualifications in 2022. The IMI TechSafe recognition program provides independent assessment and recognition of the technical competence of technicians working in the UK automotive sector. IMI TechSafe identifies a member’s professionalism and safe working practice in the field of electric vehicles (EV) and other safety-critical vehicle systems such ADAS.