Why Technician Training for Electric Cars is Different

While there has been a major buzz around the sales and release of electric vehicles (EVs), you may not realize how different these vehicles are from cars powered by gas! While traditional cars have hundreds of moving parts, EVs only have about 30. The biggest difference in part number comes from the power source. Traditional cars have gas engines that run on petroleum, while EVs have large, heavy batteries powered by electricity.

With such distinct power sources, the repair and service work technicians complete on EVs are new and not like anything they've done before. Due to the novelty of this work, technicians need to complete special training courses on how to work on electric cars. While basic training is usually required, most dealerships offer options when it comes to training. This allows individual technicians to pick the option that works best for them!

Option 1: Basic

The basic option for electric training is an entry-level course in electric vehicles. Technicians will learn basic safety protocols, and how to do light repair work (such as brake maintenance) when an EV is in the shop. This is the type of training that most dealerships require all their technicians to complete. To learn more about what EV training is required, we recommend reviewing OEM’s training programs to find the right fit for you!

Pros: You can access basic training and safety for electric cars, while not having to learn more if it's not a topic that interests you.

Cons: Without additional training, you may find yourself limited in the types of work you can complete as EVs continue to grow in popularity.

Option 2: Advanced

To do heavy repairs (such as battery replacement) on EVs, technicians must complete advanced training. EVs run on lithium batteries and replacing these require complex knowledge of battery repair. With EVs gaining popularity, highly trained EV technicians are in high demand across the country. As advanced electrical training is beyond the basic knowledge an automotive technician needs, these training courses are optional, allowing technicians who are passionate about EVs to sign up. This is similar to other advanced technician courses, such as collision repair or engine performance specialists. Automotive technicians can dive into specific areas of interest and become experts.

Pros: You can become an expert in all things EVs!

Cons: As this is a specialist area, advanced training takes longer and requires more effort to complete.

As EV sales continue to rise, technicians working at OEM dealerships will continue to be the first to see and learn about emerging technology related to EVs, and the first to be trained on how they work!