A new training programme has been set up to give independent vehicle dealers free practical support to confidently stock and sell used EVs.
The EV Retail Ready programme, backed by the BVRLA, IMDA and EVA England, has been developed with support from Lex Autolease, mfldirect – the remarketing arm of Motability Operations – Octopus Electric Vehicles and Zenith.
It aims to give independent dealers practical knowledge and confidence as growing numbers of EVs reach the second-hand market.
While demand for second-hand EVs is increasing, the industry recognises that further support is needed, the companies said.
Through this free programme, completed online at the dealer’s convenience, four modules take the learner through commercial viability, energy and charging, in-life costs, and the customer journey.
Delegates can access the content and complete the assessments at a time and pace that works for them, with the full programme expected to take up to two hours per individual.
On completing the course, the individual will be officially credited, and dealerships can receive wider accreditation when all consumer-facing staff have completed the programme.
As well as the programme’s training materials, EV Retail Ready users can access the ClearWatt EV Explorer, giving vehicle-specific information on areas including batteries, charging and real-world range.
Toby Poston, BVRLA chief executive, said, “Independent dealers are a fundamental part of the transition to electric vehicles.
“More EVs are entering the used market every month and we need to make sure businesses across the sector have the confidence and knowledge to sell them successfully.
“EV Retail Ready offers independent dealers free access to practical support.
“The industry has come together because a healthy used EV market benefits everyone; fleets, dealers and, ultimately, motorists looking for an affordable route into electric driving.”
