LEO JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHYVeolia UK & Ireland has won the Partnership Award at the Motor Transport Awards 2024 for developing an EV technician training scheme with Autotech Training and vehicle manufacturer Dennis Eagle
The scheme, which includes training in EV and hybrid vehicle system repair, addresses an anticipated shortfall of 16,000 EV trained vehicle technicians by 2032, and is the first Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) approved qualifications for the company’s workshop teams
Veolia has been expanding its skill set from the maintenance of internal combustion powered vehicles to battery electric vehicle (BEV) technologies, which will continue to build the in-house capability for the future. By the end of this year over 220 Veolia and Dennis Eagle technicians will complete the BEV training.
The importance of this has grown and Veolia now has 265 operational electric vehicles including RCVs, rigid waste collections, sweepers, utility and vans which cut emissions and noise, and make a valuable contribution to a net zero future. This represents the largest BEV fleet mobilised in the UK waste and resources sector.
The opportunity to enhance internal capability allows us to minimise reliance on our manufacturers’ aftersales resources, deliver cost savings and help attract, develop and retain a highly skilled workforce.
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For 38 years, the Motor Transport Awards have been the benchmark for excellence among UK road transport fleet operators, vehicle manufacturers and innovators. The Motor Transport Awards recognise achievements of the people and operators who continue to deliver the goods.
Gary Clark, UKI Fleet Director Veolia, says: “We are delighted to have our partnership recognised. Our strategic vision for Veolia was to equip its workshop technicians with the skills to safely and effectively repair and maintain its growing fleet of electric vehicles (EV’s).
The opportunity to enhance internal capability allows us to minimise reliance on our manufacturers’ aftersales resources, deliver cost savings and help attract, develop and retain a highly skilled workforce. This partnership focussed on both the mutual benefit of increasing the number of skilled technicians and a commitment to service excellence.
We are grateful for the support of our business partners and our people who have made this project possible.”
Geoff Rigg, Aftermarket Director at Dennis Eagle, says: “It was a pleasure to have worked in partnership with Veolia on this project to create and deliver an EV training course. Our aim was always to provide an inclusive, accessible, clear understanding of the dangers and systems specific to our eCollect vehicles, and in doing so have ensured their technicians possess the skills to safely and effectively maintain these vehicles”
Alistair McCrindle, Operations Director for Autotech Training, adds: “The entire Autotech Training team is thrilled to have been recognised at the Motor Industry Awards for our partnership with Veolia and Dennis Eagle. This accolade underscores our commitment to delivering innovative training solutions that meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry.
“In collaboration with Veolia and Dennis Eagle, we have designed a pioneering IMI-accredited training program that not only addresses Veolia’s current training needs but also empowers their technicians to safely and efficiently manage the complexities of electric and hybrid vehicle systems. This award is a testament to the power of collaboration, the hard work of the Autotech Training team, and our dedication to excellence.”
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