Providers of irtec Electric now taking bookings.
Enquiries for vehicle technician accreditation irtec Electric have risen sharply since it became available in April following confirmation that the new module was ready for market.
As fleets evolve to include more hybrid and electric vehicles, operators are becoming increasingly aware of the competitive advantage they can gain by accrediting their technicians to the irtec standard.
Technicians, meanwhile, are aware that skills maintaining electric vehicles have become much sought-after as the road transport industry adopts EV technology, while accreditation further demonstrates a commitment to professional development.
The accreditation for vehicles that exceed 3.500kg (HGV) or are categorised as M2 or M3 (PSV) in the DVSA inspection manuals, will give technicians certification that they can safely isolate and reinstate a large electric vehicle’s high voltage electric drivetrain system.
Society Chief Executive Bruce McGill said: “It proves that there is a huge demand from operators to accredit their technicians with the irtec licence and prioritise customer confidence in vehicle safety. For their part, technicians are aware that electrical skills are becoming essential and that the long-term future in the sector is geared towards electric or hybrid vehicles.”
Scunthorpe-based North Lindsey College, Scania and Kirklees College in West Yorkshire already offer irtec Electric and other providers are expected to follow soon after establishing safe measures to assess technicians.
Once accredited, technicians will appear on the irtec register and will receive a licence card to prove their credentials. The joint initiative between the Society and the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has already been widely successful in delivering industry standard irtec to the road transport sector.
To take the first step to become an irtec Electric accredited technician, go to irtec.org.uk to take a self-assessment, then find the nearest irtec assessment centre.
For more information on irtec electric or to register interest in assessment for your business, email: irtec@soe.org.uk