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Preparing to Sell, Service and Repair the Growing Number of EVs on our Local Roads
by Boylen
‘Computers on Wheels’ – Motor Trade Association apprentices and the automotive industry to receive the latest training and upskilling after major launch of new facility.
In June the MTA launched South Australia’s first dedicated Electric Vehicle Training Centre, marking a new and significant chapter for the industry association.
Representatives from all sides of politics including Premier Peter Malinauskas and Leader of the Opposition David Speirs, automotive insiders, government officials and special guests joined the MTA for the unveiling of the state-of-the-art workshop.
“More and more South Australians are choosing to purchase an EV and this new centre will help facilitate this ongoing and future demand,” MTA CEO Darrell Jacobs said. “Students will be undertaking their training on the latest vehicles with the latest tools, technology and safety requirements.”
“The centre will also allow the MTA to upskill existing technicians who are beginning to see EVs in their workshops and businesses for the first time.”
According to the latest figures, 5 per cent of all new cars this year in South Australia have been electric vehicles. This has increased from just 0.45 per cent in 2021.
More than 140 guests joined the MTA for the launch where a range of impressive battery electric and hybrid cars, trucks and even a bus were on display. It also included electric construction equipment and displays from local mining company Normet.
Darrell said the first of its kind training centre in South Australia would also be used to combat persistent automotive skills shortages.
“The automotive industry has an opportunity to attract a whole new range of young people to work on really exciting vehicles with cutting edge technology and advanced electronics,” he explained.
“As part of the MTA’s integrated model of training, new apprentices now receive accredited EV training.”
The Electric Vehicle Training Centre has a range of the latest vehicles including the Hyundai Ionic 6, Kia Nero and BYD Atto 3, Genesis GV 60, insulated workshop tools, hoists and safety equipment. The MTA has also partnered with myenergi for five EV chargers which will allow the training provider to use its renewable energy, charge EVs outside of peak times and reduce energy bills.
Automotive is experiencing a revolutionary turning point and the MTA stands at the forefront of this to prepare our industry and the wider public for the rise of zero and low emission vehicles.
Premier Malinauskas echoed the MTA’s remarks. “Automotive is part of our cultural and economic identity and it’s important we invest in this,” the Premier said during his speech.
“Decarbonisation is now happening and it is real. The MTA has always been at the forefront of taking up new technologies and is helping lead the way.”
The MTA currently trains more than 1,000 automotive apprentices through its Registered Training Organisation, the most in its history. All of its training is designed to match the needs of industry and member businesses. Apprenticeships are available now.
The MTA believes South Australia can play its part supporting the decarbonisation of transport, whether through:
• Electric vehicles
• Plug in hybrids
• Traditional hybrids
• Or in the future - hydrogen powered vehicles and biofuel powered vehicles
