The latest IMI data has revealed that only 1 in 4 UK technicians are currently qualified to work on EVs, but Copart has long been ahead of the curve when it comes to electric and hybrid vehicle expertise.  

 

The slowing pace of technician training is a huge concern across the industry, resulting in many organisations struggling to keep up with the rapid shift toward EVs. But here at Copart UK, we’re bucking the trend. 

 

We made an early decision to invest heavily in specialist skills, equipment, and training to safely handle, store, and process electric and hybrid vehicles — and that investment is paying off. 

 

Here’s how we’re staying ahead of the curve through qualifications, expertise, and consistently high standards: 

 

• IMI-Accredited Training Centre: We’re an Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) approved training provider, enabling us to deliver essential IMI TechSafe electric and hybrid vehicle training across our nationwide Operation Centres. 

• Specialised EV Qualifications: Our teammates are being trained to IMI Level 2 (EV Routine Maintenance) and Level 3 (System Repair & Replacement) standards. 

• Highly Skilled Teams: 100+ EV L2 qualified teammates certified to safely assess and handle EVs. 

• Extensive Driver Training: 350+ completed IVR VR27 and 300+ completed IVR VR28 EVs are handled safely from recovery through to transport, delivered internally by our own IVR-qualified trainers 

• Specialised EV Handling Areas: All our UK Operation Centres feature dedicated EV handling zones equipped with hazardous spillage kits, high voltage tools, fire suppression equipment, rescue hooks, and specialist PPE. 

 

The result? 

 

A nationwide network of EV-ready teams, purpose-built facilities, and accredited training programmes — ensuring the highest standards of safety and expertise at every stage of the EV journey. 

 

We’re proud to be the only operator currently delivering both VR27 and VR28 internally at national scale in the UK salvage sector, providing a complete, end-to-end competency framework. 

 

At Copart, we’re not just keeping pace – we’re setting the standard.