IMI launches new manifesto to drive skills revolution

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has unveiled its Driving the Future of Automotive Professionals manifesto, setting out a roadmap to tackle the UK's worsening skills crisis and ensure the sector remains competitive, future-proof and globally respected.

With the UK automotive industry employing 866,000 people and contributing £37 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) in 2023, the IMI warns that nearly 20% of the current workforce – around 144,000 roles – will need replacing by 2032 due to retirement.

Combined with 17,000 existing vacancies, the skills shortfall poses a significant threat to the industry’s ability to innovate and grow.

"This is a crucial moment for the automotive sector," said Hayley Pells, policy lead at the IMI. "If we’re going to keep pace with change and remain competitive, we must act now to close the skills gap. Our manifesto lays out how we can bring in new talent, support today’s workforce, and prepare for the technologies of tomorrow."

The IMI’s manifesto is built on three central pillars:

• Attract and recruit talent: Through initiatives like There’s More to Motor, the IMI aims to improve public perceptions of automotive careers and simplify access to apprenticeships and training. The organisation is also pushing for better integration between education and employment systems to open up more flexible, relevant career pathways.
• Retain and progress talent: The IMI is committed to upskilling the current workforce and supporting career progression via professional recognition schemes like the IMI Professional Register and IMI TechSafe. This includes promoting diversity in the industry and advocating for funding support.
• Prepare for future skills: With the rapid shift toward electrification and connected vehicle technologies, the IMI will use its Insights by IMI series and proactive data-led forecasting to ensure training stays ahead of industry trends.

The manifesto also calls for stronger collaboration between employers, government and education to deliver systemic change. Specifically, the IMI is urging the government to prioritise the automotive sector in its industrial strategy by committing to regulatory reform, R&D investment, and the delivery of a long-promised dedicated automotive strategy.