Four predictions for 2023

This is an exciting time to work in the automotive sector, but we still need to be ready for the challenges heading our way. Here are the four biggies I think we’ll face, and how we’ll navigate them…

Skilling up our workforces

The CBI says that the skills shortage will be with us for the long term, so employers need to get planning. Although apprenticeship numbers have increased significantly recently, they still aren’t at pre-pandemic levels. If we’re to avoid long-term challenges in finding the talent our industry needs, we need levels to rise. But it’s not just about technical roles: management vacancies are on the up too.

Getting serious about EDI

We have no chance of addressing those skills gaps without widening our appeal to under-represented groups. The IMI is focusing on providing employers with practical solutions they can apply both for existing and future employees. There are lots of recommendations by our Diversity Task Force.

Agency models become a reality

The first OEM (Mercedes) adopted the new sales approach at the beginning of January 2023. In reality nobody, including them, quite knows what challenges that will bring. Roles and responsibilities on both sides will change and potentially bring the need for new skills, which we will be watching closely to see where we can assist with appropriate solutions.

Technological shifts

We’ll see the first Level 3 autonomous vehicles on our roads in 2023. That generates another skills discussion, but it doesn’t end there, as vehicle autonomy is met with more developments in the fuel powering transport – electric and hydrogen – pushing the skills debate further.

Hydrogen continues to develop alongside BEVs. BMW is launching its limited-production Hydrogen X5; Toyota gained funding to develop a Hydrogen fuel cell LCV in the UK; other OEM’s are moving forward with this parallel solution.

All this will put IMI TechSafe front and centre, making sure that the people working on these vehicles have the latest skills and knowledge.

It’s going to be an exciting year, so if you have any questions, please get in touch on +44 (0)1992 519025, or send an email to hello@theimi.org.uk and we’ll try out best to help.

With my very best wishes

Steve