LKQ Academy has launched a new training course, aimed at helping technicians to understand and service hydrogen vehicles.
With the automotive market in a state of flux regarding zero-emission vehicles, following registrations of battery-electric models slowing as the market reaches its natural levels, more carmakers are looking to hydrogen technologies.
Currently, Toyota and Hyundai have hydrogen cars on sale, while BMW is actively developing its fuel-cell vehicles. However, it is the commercial vehicle market that is leading in hydrogen, with Renault and Stellantis both offering vans with hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion.
Whether more carmakers will look to develop hydrogen vehicles remains to be seen, with the technology still in its infancy. Yet there is an interest in the technology amongst the aftermarket, with many believing it has a place in a zero-emission vehicle market.
Understanding hydrogen vehicles
To ensure technicians can learn, understand and safely service hydrogen vehicles, LKQ Academy has developed its new course with the aim of sustainability in mind.
The Hydrogen Vehicle Safety Awareness Certification will provide learners with an essential understanding of safe practice, potential dangers and necessary precautions when servicing hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles.
As an IMI-approved qualification, the course offers an introduction to the specialism, enabling technicians to develop their skills and futureproof their careers, ahead of the new-car zero-emission only future that could begin as early as 2030.
The day-long course is the latest addition to the LKQ Academy’s growing portfolio of training that helps garages to prepare for a sustainable future. With over 20,000 technicians registered to the Academy, it has already upskilled more than 3,000 in servicing hybrid and electric car maintenance and repair.
“The refining and transmission of green hydrogen is rapidly developing, creating more opportunities to expand refuelling infrastructure,” said Lee Chapman, head of support & LKQ Academy at LKQ Euro Car Parts. “Carmakers are also planning to bring forward new hydrogen vehicles in the next few years, alongside electric releases, to meet the needs of a decarbonised car parc.
“While there is strong consensus that the future of emission-free vehicles will be largely electric, hydrogen still has an important role to play as part of the net-zero fuel mix. Launching a hydrogen vehicles dedicated course expands on our support to futureproof skills in the aftermarket, while creating an opportunity for garages to build a valuable specialism.”
Continuing growth
LKQ Academy has also introduced a full-day course on identifying and fixing AdBlue system faults alongside the new hydrogen vehicles training.
New training comes as the LKQ Academy undergoes a major expansion. The training provider has plans to open 10 new centres across the UK, with an Academy in Tamworth about to open, as well as new sites in Glasgow and Manchester already added, alongside 26 external sites, creating a total capacity of 11,000 seats on 80 different courses.
The business has recruited five new instructors as part of the expansion so far and has signed an exclusive contract with Andy Savva, The Garage Inspector, to deliver training through the Academy for the coming three years.
To view the full range of courses on offer at the LKQ Academy, follow this link.
