Earthling Automotive, a leader in independent electric vehicle (EV) service and repair, has announced the expansion of its EV knowledge program to cater to the increasing need for trained automotive technicians in the aftermarket. With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, aftermarket repair shops need to be equipped to safely and competitively service EVs, as more consumers seek alternatives to dealership services.
The demand for electric vehicles has been on the rise, with one in four cars sold in California last quarter being EVs. It is projected that there will be 7.5 million EVs on the road by 2030. In light of this, Earthling Automotive recognizes the importance of providing training to automotive technicians to ensure their success in this evolving industry.
According to Jack Rosebro, Head of Training at Earthling Automotive, understanding the intricacies of EV technology is essential for aftermarket technicians. He states, “Today’s electric vehicles are much more than ‘nuts and bolts.’ They are nuts, bolts, physics, and code.” Earthling Automotive aims to share its extensive knowledge and experience with the industry at large to help accelerate the transition to EVs.
Earthling Automotive offers small group courses for technicians, focusing on hands-on training. One such course is the Tesla 1 course, which provides essential knowledge about Tesla vehicles. The course covers topics such as effective communication with Tesla owners, accessing service information, ordering parts, understanding key differences between Teslas and other EVs, and necessary tooling.
Additionally, Earthling Automotive provides training on general hybrid and electric vehicle platforms. This program covers various makes and models, with an emphasis on the Toyota Prius from 2004-2016, which is widely used in the US market. Students gain hands-on experience in diagnosing, testing, and replacing high voltage components.
To ensure that technicians have a solid foundation in electrical fundamentals, Earthling Automotive offers a three-day electrical course. This course assumes no prior diagnostic experience with automotive electrical systems, ensuring that technicians are equipped with the necessary skills to work on any EV or hybrid vehicle.
It is worth noting that Earthling Automotive is not only focused on training aftermarket technicians but also collaborates with community colleges to update instructors on the latest EV technology. This partnership aims to enhance the technical training provided by community colleges and prepare aspiring technicians for the evolving automotive industry.
Earthling Automotive’s commitment to continuous learning extends to its in-house technicians, who undergo a hybrid, EV, and Tesla-specific training program. This program ensures that technicians stay updated on the latest technological advancements and are well-equipped to service the vehicles they work on.
By Anna Maxted
