The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has today launched a new qualification in vehicle sales, as part of a strategy for tackling unacceptably high staff turnover, improving staff motivation and business performance and enhancing the public perception of car retailing.

The new Certificate (level 2) and Diploma (level 3) in Vehicle Sales will be awarded, exclusively, by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). Sales staff would be required to undertake practical assignments, workplace assessments and a series of multiple-choice examinations over the internet, using the IMI's on-line assessment system. It is expected that many existing sales training programmes offered by manufacturers, dealer groups and specialist training providers could provide significant evidence of training for the new awards.

The qualification is on the National Framework, making it eligible for Government funding through Learning and Skills Councils – in the retail motor industry's case, the forthcoming Automotive Skills - to encourage employers to invest in staff training and development. The Government's skills strategy white paper entitles employees to funding to achieve a minimum level 2 qualification (equivalent to five GCSEs), with the opportunity to progress to level 3 (equivalent to two A levels).