The Institute of the Motor Industry has annnounced its support for Automotive Training Partners, an initiative to raise skill standards.

ATP brings together seven leading UK training providers with the support of Automotive Management, AutoTrade and Sewells Information & Research.

Stuart Brooks, IMI director of communications and business development, said: “We are backing ATP because we believe the initiative adds value and stimulates a fresh approach in the industry to invest in skills.

“We believe investment has not been at an adequate level and the IMI's mission is to raise professional standards. ATP will be a new conduit for that ambition.”

Mr Brooks attended a meeting of executives from the seven training partners. Ideas under development include ATP certificates endorsed by the Institute and discounted IMI membership fees for applicants who meet the criteria.

Automotive Training Partners are: BTC (new and used car sales), People First Europe (business, fleet and commercial vehicle sales), Cyber Car (internet selling), PROfit (finance and insurance), Aftersales First (aftersales), Automotive Business College (management) and Lawgistics (trading standards, consumer and employment law).