The IMI
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) was founded in 1920 when society – as now – was experiencing rapid technology-driven change. The IMI was created to establish new skills and knowledge benchmarks for the emerging automotive industry.
At the IMI, we believe passionately that the automotive industry is a driver of innovation, employment and economic growth. We believe the people working in the industry need the most relevant, up-to-date skills and qualifications in order to progress – especially during times of intense change.
IMI’s purpose is to provide, and continuously evolve, the means by which people working in the automotive sector can attain relevant professional competence and appropriate recognition.
The automotive world is changing fast
The automotive world is changing fast, and it’s full of opportunities for the next generation. The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) represents everyone working and learning in automotive, from apprentices and technicians to engineers, managers, and educators. Our job is to help people build the skills and confidence, through professional standards, that they need to succeed in this exciting, fast-moving industry.
Right now, the shift towards net zero and greener transport is creating thousands of new roles. Electric and hydrogen vehicles, battery recycling, sustainable manufacturing, and digital innovation are transforming how we travel and how vehicles are made, sold, and repaired. That means new skills, new ideas, and new people are needed, people like you.
Whether you’re into technology, problem-solving, design, data, or customer service, there’s a green career waiting for you in automotive. The IMI is here to help you get started, develop your skills, and be part of a workforce that’s driving a cleaner, smarter future for us all.
Key Data
The Automotive sector has taken significant strides to meet the demands of a greener and more sustainable future, needed to protect our environment for future generations. Those entering careers within the sector, or transitioning to apply their skillset are the key drivers in the future of automotive skills and developments towards a greener automotive landscape?
- There are currently over 1.5million Electric Vehicles (EV’s) on UK roads and over 19% of all new car registrations within 2024.
- There are now more than 66,700 IMI Tech-safe certified Technicians trained to work on Hybrid and electric vehicles (29% of total). The demand for EV skilled technicians is projected to grow to over 110,000 by 2030 (IMI EV Techsafe Technician Forecast July 2025)
Green Jobs
There are over 200 diverse careers across the automotive sector from technical and engineering roles to sales, marketing, business support, and specialist positions.
Increasingly, these roles are being shaped by the integration of Green Skills, as the industry accelerates its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly innovation.
The transition to Net Zero is not creating a separate category of “green jobs” it’s redefining every role across the sector. Whether through electrification, digitalisation, or circular-economy principles, sustainability is becoming embedded in the very fabric of automotive careers.
Want to learn more about how automotive roles are evolving and why new talent is essential to driving innovation and sustainability? Explore the opportunities and discover how your skills can help shape the future of mobility.
Specialise in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining electric and hybrid vehicles. Work with high-voltage systems, cutting-edge diagnostics, and sustainable technologies that are driving the shift to net zero
Engineer and optimise battery systems for electric vehicles and energy storage. Be at the heart of innovation, working with advanced technologies that power the transition to low-emission transport
Safely dismantle and recycle vehicles, recovering valuable materials and supporting the circular economy. Play a key role in reducing waste and environmental impact in the automotive sector
Analyse fleet performance, emissions, and efficiency using telematics and data tools. Help organisations make informed decisions that improve sustainability and reduce operational costs
Maintain and repair large passenger vehicles, supporting safe and efficient public transport. Work with evolving technologies as fleets transition to greener, low-emission models
Design and integrate low-carbon transport and energy systems. Collaborate across disciplines to build smart, resilient infrastructure that supports net zero goals
Generalist Roles in Automotive
The automotive sector isn’t just about engineering and mechanics it’s a dynamic industry that also relies on skilled professionals in areas like Administration, Sales, HR, Customer Service, and Operations. If you already have experience in these fields, your skills are highly transferable and can be applied to support the transition to greener, smarter transport systems.
Whether you’re coordinating fleet schedules, managing customer relationships, supporting recruitment and training, or driving sales of electric vehicles, generalist roles are essential to keeping the sector running smoothly and sustainably.
Key opportunities include:
Supporting logistics, compliance, and documentation across fleet management, maintenance schedules, and sustainability reporting.
Promoting electric and low-emission vehicles, engaging with customers and stakeholders, and helping drive the adoption of green transport solutions.
Recruiting and developing talent for emerging green roles, supporting CPD initiatives, and fostering inclusive, future-ready workplaces.
Assisting individuals and organisations with queries around vehicle services, electric charging, and sustainable transport options.
As the industry evolves, these roles offer exciting opportunities to work alongside technical teams, contribute to innovation, and be part of the shift towards net zero. With continuous professional development and sector-specific training, generalist professionals can build rewarding careers in automotive, bringing valuable skills and fresh perspectives to a fast-changing industry.
Routes into Green Careers within Automotive
The automotive industry offers a wide range of entry points for individuals at different stages of their education and career journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upskill, there are accessible pathways that lead to exciting roles in sustainable transport and green technologies.
Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience while earning a qualification. They are available at multiple levels and are ideal for those who prefer practical learning in real-world settings. Roles can include Bus & Coach Technician, Vehicle Dismantler, Battery Systems Engineer, and more.
Designed for those new to the sector, Level 1 courses offer a foundation in automotive skills and knowledge. They’re a great starting point for school leavers or career changers exploring technical or generalist roles.
Level 2 qualifications build core competencies in areas such as vehicle maintenance, customer service, and workshop safety. This level is suitable for entry-level technician roles or support functions within automotive businesses.
At Level 3, learners gain deeper technical expertise and may specialise in areas like diagnostics, electric vehicle systems, or fleet data analysis. This level often aligns with advanced apprenticeships and prepares individuals for skilled roles.
Level 4 qualifications focus on leadership, advanced diagnostics, and systems integration. They are ideal for those progressing into supervisory or specialist engineering roles, including Sustainable Systems Engineer or Fleet Analyst.
University degrees and higher technical qualifications (such as HNCs/HNDs) offer routes into strategic and research-based roles. These include sustainable transport planning, automotive design, and systems engineering. Many institutions now offer courses aligned with green technologies and net zero goals.
More to Motor – Dhruv Patel
More to Motor is our campaign that brings the real voices of automotive to the forefront and provides an authentic look into the diverse and meaningful career paths within the industry. It’s about showing that automotive is more than just mechanics and engineering; it’s a sector full of opportunity, innovation, and purpose.
In the video below, meet Dhruv, he always recommends automotive to others because of the impactful work, the sense of community, and the constant learning the industry offers. His story highlights the importance of being open to growth and embracing new challenges.