Allianz Partners Invests in Technician EV Skills

Ensuring all technicians are IMI TechSafeTM approved

Two thirds of Allianz Partners UK’s national network of manufacturer dedicated and multi-brand roadside technicians have achieved the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) L3 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair, which crucially includes IMI TechSafeTM professional registration. The remaining technicians will complete accreditation by the end of March 2020.

The TechSafeTM Standards for those working on Electric Vehicles (EV) are set by the IMI and endorsed by the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). In addition, the Electricity at Work Regulations require additional training and protection for those working on these vehicles. Through the IMI L3 all TechSafeTM approved technicians are trained to understand and manage the risks of working on EVs, disconnect high voltage systems and identify solutions. They are also able to communicate knowledgeably with customers at the roadside.

With all technicians TechSafeTM approved, Allianz Partners is ensuring that its clients and customers have confidence that the attending technician has the right skills and knowledge to manage their situation.

Ian Burchette, Technical Development Manager at Allianz Partners UK, explains: “As EVs become more popular we have a duty of care as an assistance provider to protect not only our technicians when they repair these vehicles, but also the public and our partners. We have always invested in the continual professional development of our technicians, making sure they are trained to the highest level. The skills and professionalism of our roadside assistance technicians are at the heart of our success, and this new commitment enables us to continue to deliver the best customer service on behalf of our manufacturer clients.”

Steve Nash CEO of the IMI added: “The value of this commitment by Allianz Partners UK should not be underestimated. As EVs become more common on our roads, the technology that technicians encounter every day is changing rapidly. Motorists need to know that the technician assessing and repairing their vehicle at the roadside has the right skills to do the job, and by investing in fast-tracking EV training, Allianz Partners is providing that assurance.

“Recognising the strong commitment by Allianz Partners to empower its technicians with the knowledge and skills to assist and repair EVs, which will benefit the market as a whole, we are delighted to have invited the business to participate in the EV Sector Advisory Panel, which works primarily to set out qualification standards and CPD across the automotive sector.”

Mark Anderson, Technical Training Manager for Allianz Partners UK, concludes: “By working closely with manufacturers and the industry to observe electricity regulations and keep EV skills development a high priority, we are playing a key part in supporting the drive towards greater electrification.”