The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has held its first online ‘Industry Briefing Bitesize’, with the main theme being an insight into the continued growth of electric vehicles.

Mike Smallbone, head of membership development at IAAF, kicked off the proceedings, welcoming members before introducing Steve Carter from Train4Auto Consultancy.

Steve spoke of how the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic have led to dramatic improvements in air quality and that this would likely accelerate the move to electric and hybrid vehicles. He also pointed out that prior to lockdown in March, 34% of new cars sold in the UK were EV’s and that the number of EV model options had risen from 6 in 2010, to 110 today and would likely be 150 by the end of 2020.

He then explained why EV momentum is building, with factors including; EU CO2 targets, emission zones and congestion charges, lower running costs and more acceptance of the technology. He also suggested the present crisis in the fossil fuel industry meant it was no longer an attractive investment option, while some government would continue to provide subsidises for first time EV buyers.    

Steve then touched on the experience of Norway, a country even more rural that Ireland, where EV’s now make up the bulk of the vehicle fleet and energy stations are replacing fuel filling stations. He also explained how vehicle manufacturers were moving to a sales model that includes a charging subscription, something that offers future profit potential for hard pressed car makers.  

Steve said, “As an industry, we need to take the rise of electric vehicle sales seriously and view it as an opportunity. Change is inevitable and it’s important that the supply chain plans accordingly sooner rather than later.” He added, “Technology is constantly evolving and we need good training to ensure technicians can safely service electric vehicles.”

Steve estimated that less than 10% of garages in the UK are equipped to work on EV’s, meaning lots of work needs to be done.

Following Steve’s presentation, Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, spoke about IAAF’s current activity, including; Type Approval legislation, to ensure the OBD port remains open for repair and maintenance information. Work is also continuing on the forthcoming Block Exemption renewal, due in 2023, which is absolutely vital for the sector, as it underpins the right to repair vehicles from new and to fit parts of OE matching quality. More information was also provided on how IAAF is building a consensus against an overall scrappage scheme.

The next event will take place on 23rd July with Quentin Le Hetet, general manager of GiPA UK the main presenter.