IMI TechSafe is the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) standard for showing that a technician has the right skills to work safely on modern vehicles. As vehicles become more advanced, with electric systems, driver assistance features and connected technology now common, IMI TechSafe provides a clear benchmark for what “competent and safe” looks like.
At its heart, IMI TechSafe is about giving confidence. It shows that a technician is properly trained and keeping their skills up to date through ongoing professional development. It covers key areas such as electric and hybrid vehicles, ADAS, hydrogen systems and connected vehicle technologies. For employers, insurers and consumers, it offers reassurance that work is being carried out safely and to a recognised standard.
This matters because the industry is changing fast, and there isn’t yet a consistent, nationwide standard in place. Without one, the risks are growing. These include higher chances of injury when working on high‑voltage or complex systems, increased liability for businesses and lower consumer confidence. It can also slow down the adoption of newer, cleaner vehicle technologies.
This issue is already gaining attention at the highest levels. In May 2026, the IMI brought together senior industry leaders, employers and experts alongside Shadow Secretary of State for Transport, Rt Hon Richard Holden MP, to discuss the future of automotive workforce safety. The clear outcome of that discussion was that, as vehicles become more complex, government needs to ensure technicians can demonstrate recognised, auditable competence. IMI TechSafe was identified as the practical solution to achieve this, with strong support from across both the automotive sector and policymakers.
That is why the IMI is calling on the government for IMI TechSafe to be mandated across four key areas of the automotive sector. These are connected vehicles, where secure data and software updates are critical; automated vehicle technology, including ADAS and sensor calibration; electric vehicles, where high‑voltage safety and battery health are essential; and alternative fuels such as hydrogen, where safe handling and storage are vital.
Through this ongoing engagement with government and industry, the IMI is building a strong, joined‑up case for change. The message is clear: without a consistent standard, there is a growing gap between rapidly advancing vehicle technology and the skills needed to work on it safely. Mandating TechSafe would help close that gap and ensure the right safeguards are in place as the sector evolves.
Making IMI TechSafe mandatory would help ensure everyone working in these areas meets the same minimum standard. It would make the industry safer, reduce risk for employers and give technicians clearer recognition for their skills. It would also build greater trust with customers as new technologies become more common.
Ultimately, IMI TechSafe is about keeping pace with change. As vehicles become more complex, the skills needed to work on them must keep up. Mandating IMI TechSafe would help protect technicians, support businesses and give confidence to consumers that their vehicles are in safe hands.
You can read more about IMI TechSafe here.
