Policy
Policy statements driving industry standards
Our policy statements set out the IMI’s formal position on key issues affecting automotive skills, standards and workforce development.
They reflect professional expertise and employer insight, and clearly articulate what the IMI is calling for from government, regulators and industry to protect quality and safety.
Rising Energy Costs
The IMI is increasingly concerned about the impact of rising energy costs on automotive businesses, particularly small and medium‑sized enterprises, at a time when the sector must accelerate investment in skills and workforce development.
Youth Employment
The IMI welcomes increased focus on youth employment and apprenticeships. However, the IMI is clear that the challenge is not a lack of aspiration among young people, but structural barriers within the skills and employment system.
Apprenticeship Reform
The IMI supports reform of the apprenticeship system where it reflects the evolving needs of employers and learners. However, the IMI is clear that reforms must not compromise the quality, integrity or safety of automotive apprenticeships.
Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate
The IMI supports the UK’s ambition to transition to zero emission vehicles and recognises the critical role the ZEV Mandate plays in driving progress towards net zero. However, the current pathway risks outpacing the workforce and sector capacity required to deliver this transition safely, sustainably and at scale.
SIC and Soc Reform
Current Standard Industrial Classification and Standard Occupational Classification systems do not adequately capture the modern automotive sector. While automotive manufacturing is relatively well defined, large parts of the downstream workforce; service, repair, diagnostics, logistics, and specialist technical roles, remain under-represented.