UK automotive employers are expecting to boost apprenticeship numbers by almost a sixth (16%) in 2025, according to a new survey by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
More than 550 new apprentices have already joined the sector this academic year, with an additional 740 apprenticeships still available.
The growth of 16% builds on previous years, with a 40.8% rise in new apprenticeship starts in 2023 alone, according to the latest full year of apprenticeship data.
The snapshot from the survey coincides with the UK celebrating National Apprenticeship Week.
The SMMT said more than £20 billion of investment has been committed to Britain’s electric vehicle transition in the past two years alone – bringing with it demand for a highly skilled workforce adept in the latest technologies.
From R&D and manufacturing to the supply chain, maintenance and repair, there are hundreds of new opportunities up for grabs, with some highly skilled positions most in need including design and development engineers, EV technicians and specialists in batteries and power electronics.
These roles reflect a growing zero emission vehicle market with 180 different new cars, vans, trucks and buses – already available in the UK and more coming in 2025.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Britain’s automotive sector is on the cusp of a ‘green growth decade’ with billions being invested in EVs and, crucially, in a new generation of talent to design, build and maintain them.
“There is little doubt that automotive is one of the world’s most exciting industries and, as we seek growth, we need new-skilled apprentices that can grow with us.
“Our promise is well-paid, rewarding careers for years to come.”