Keeping up with automotive tech has never been more crucial

Delphi Technologies, a brand of BorgWarner Inc, says autonomous driving technologies, electrification of the vehicle parc and different diagnostic processes are among the key step-changes independents face and this fast-paced flow of innovative new technology is driving demand for quality technical training.

“Cars are changing,” says Technical Services Manager Luke Garratt. “The drivetrains, the onboard technology and the methods of interacting with the vehicle are all transforming.”

“Motivation might be getting ahead by winning more work or it can just be about keeping up,” said Luke. “Even doing some of the simplest service jobs now require access to the vehicle’s ECU and coding capability so new skills, new equipment and a commitment to continual learning are absolutely essential.”

Delphi’s offering includes face-to-face training in Warwick, online learning through its Delphi Academy and tips, hints, articles and ‘How To’ videos are available at the new Masters of Motion hub.

Return on investment

“Garages have to make tough calls on how to allocate their resources,” said Luke. “We’re finding staff retention is a key driver for training these days. Recruiting skilled technicians is difficult and expensive so a modest ongoing investment in training over several years can pay for itself in making it easier to attract new technicians.”

Delphi say staff retention is boosted too because technicians who feel they are developing their abilities won’t be as easily tempted to move for a few pounds more in their pay packet.

Diagnostics-specific e-learning modules can be viewed here, covering a wide range of subjects, including Pass Through, security gateways and ADAS.

Blended learning ethos

Delphi currently offer face-to-face training from their workshop in Warwick. “We’ve focused on future technology within the centre,” said Luke. “We’ve got vehicles, service equipment and test rigs for technicians to work on - there’s still no substitute for ‘hands on’ learning.” This is complemented by the Delphi Technologies Academy, which was launched in late 2021 and provides flexible e-learning. It offers over 300 individual modules varying in length from a couple of minutes to nearly an hour each.

“The Delphi Technologies Academy gives a convenient way to enhance skills and knowledge without the challenges of attending physical training,” said Luke. “There’s a training Needs Assessment which includes a series of questionnaires and online ‘practicals’ before suggesting modules to complete tailored to that user.

“Hybrid and electric vehicle training is the perfect example of the benefits of a true blended learning experience. For the more advanced EV course we provide six hours of online prelearning on electrical systems to try and get the foundation knowledge of electrical principle to then build upon in the training centre.”

Industry-recognised qualifications

More than 70 per cent of delegates follow a defined training pathway, mapped to industry-recognised IMI qualifications. Each of the pathways provides between four and seven modules which are one or two days in duration. IMI Accreditation is then dependent upon completing an additional assessment day afterwards.

“We’ve got a framework of content that can be flexed to many different requirements,” said Luke. “Other routes can be mapped out in consultation with our trainers.”

Find out more

Information on the Delphi Technologies Academy can be found here

Technicians can find hints and tips on the new Masters of Motion hub