The Institute of the Motor Industry celebrates its 100th birthday this year and has pledged to raise £100,000 for the motor industry charity Ben.

And it has also set to target of increasing its membership from the current record level of 72,000 to 100,000 by the end of the 2020/21 financial year.

The Ben fundraising schedule will start with the IMI's Centenary Dinner on March 11 in London.

Steve Nash, IMI chief executive, said the professional body for workers in the motor industry has always focused on looking after members and boosting public confidence in the trade.

"“That’s why it was so important to us to do something incredibly positive to celebrate our centenary. What could be better than fundraising for the charity which supports automotive industry people with invaluable health, wellbeing and care services?” he added.

The desire to increase membership is so even more motor industry employees can benefit from its services, he said, as having been the touchstone for training standards throughout the automotive sector since its inception in 1920, the IMI now offers nearly 500 qualifications through 600 providers and constantly promotes industry job opportunities. 

From 2020 all IMI accredited Apprenticeship at Work scheme employees will be eligible to join the industry body before graduating.

The professional body also campaigns for greater recognition for professionals within the motor industry as Steve Nash explained. “Back in the 1920’s our major role was to boost public confidence, quite literally, away from horse-power by setting and maintaining the highest standards for the automotive sector.

"Now, as technology advances and there is a need for a wholesale move to electrification, our role in developing and maintaining a relevant, competent and professional workforce, with the respect of the driving public is as important as ever.”