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36 AFTERMARKET DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020 TRAINING AND APPRENTICESHIPS www.aftermarketonline.net W ith the UK having a target of no new internal combustion engine vehicles being sold after 2040, the start of a new decade provides a jumping-off point for the aftermarket to prepare for a brave new world. Of course, it’s not that new, as EVs and hybrids have been with us for some time. A 20-year countdown might provide some impetus for getting existing staff on some training courses, and looking to bring the next generation up to speed through apprenticeships too. While new tech and new challenges are an important aspect of this, it is worth remembering that training should be happening all the time. Businesses shouldn’t need a deadline to keep them on their toes, and not everyone does. Opportunities Training and apprenticeships are a priority right across the sector. Now offering a fully IMI-accredited training course and providing young engineers with increased opportunities – Klarius is helping technicians and students to keep pace with the ever-changing landscape regarding emission control systems. Doug Bentley, Head of Research and Development at Klarius, explained: “Emissions standards are tightening as we move to a greener future. This means that exhausts, CATs and DPFs are continually changing. Emission control systems that include exhaust, CAT, DPF, sensors and ECU are increasing in complexity to conform to new legal requirements for vehicle emissions. To carry out effective repairs on this new generation of highly efficient vehicles, technicians need to be aware of the latest developments, diagnostics and repair/replace options. This is why we saw the importance of offering an IMI accredited training course. “With Euro 6 emissions standards being implemented fully since September 2015, and the more stringent Real Driving Emission (RDE) now compulsory for all new registrations - manufacturers are incorporating specialised emission control systems to meet the new requirements. When this new generation of vehicles require a MOT or repair, technicians will be working with systems of increased complexity. Therefore, familiarity is important in ensuring a quality exhaust system repair and for protecting overall vehicle efficiency.” Doug continued: “As a manufacturer of type-approved aftermarket emission control components that are designed to deliver equivalent performance compared to the OEM item – we are well placed to conduct these courses and impart up-to-date knowledge to technicians. The cars on UK roads are diversifying, which means we continually develop new-to-range parts and release them to market - so we are well informed. “Our course addresses the latest emission control technology, device function, diagnostics, installation techniques and legislature – with an assessment that results in a full IMI qualification. Even the most experienced technicians may not be familiar with all the latest industry developments – so we’re smoothening this transmission of knowledge to professionals on the ground.” As the new generation of efficient vehicles heads to the garage for MOTs, an entirely new generation of young technicians will have also entered the aftermarket. Aspiring young engineers are supported by Klarius; which offers work experience, educational support and apprenticeships as part of its training programme. “We have recently welcomed students from the JCB Academy into our technical centre and product marketing team,” Doug explained. “We work closely with Staffordshire University to help burgeoning engineers get a Above: On-site EV training will not only equip vehicle technicians with the essential skills, but limit the number of working hours lost to training 2020-VISION: UPSKILLING FOR A NEW ERA Training and apprenticeships are going to be vital as the sector enters a new decade full of challenges and opportunities