IMI Level 1 in Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Awareness

IMI Level 1 in Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Awareness for all motor industry related personnel

As one of our most popular courses, this IMI Accredited Level 1 automotive training course is designed to provide personnel who work with, near or around Hybrid and Electric Vehicles, a sufficiently broad awareness to ensure they are both well informed, safe and can confidently communicate with customers about these vehicles.

This 23 part IMI Accredited Course covers a range of key subjects including; What are Hybrid and Electric Vehicles?, Charging Plug In Vehicles, Ready Mode, Introduction into Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCEV), Electrocution, Hybrid’s and EV’s when they’re in the workshop, Health Conditions, Working on Hybrid and EV’s (for non-HV trained technicians) and, what High Voltage Isolation is.

Available with and without IMI Certification – you choose.

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The Training Experience

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Candidates enrolled in this 2.5 hour online course will be granted three months access to ensure it can be completed at a time which fits in with you and your other business objectives. This course can be completed in one go or through multiple logins throughout the three month access period. All of the training is conducted online through watching our interactive video-based chapters and once completed, all of the training material can be revisited multiple times too. The end test will need to be overseen by a manager and a ‘Manager Invigilation Form’ will need to be submitted back to us to claim the IMI Accredited Professional Development Certificate from the awarding body.

Suitable for:

  • Bus and Coach operators preparing their teams for electrification
  • Commercial vehicle operators preparing their workforce for vehicle electrification
  • Motor factor sales teams
  • Service receptionists
  • Parts advisors
  • Valeters/ Detailers
  • Windscreen/ ICE installers
  • Rental agency staff

This training will give you and your team the confidence and knowledge to work alongside these vehicles safely and with confidence.

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Our Training Centre is full of a wide range of courses, such as Essential Electrics, Engine Management, Hybrid Technology, and much more. We’re also adding new courses all the time.

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EV training is structured into four key levels to reflect the increasing complexity of working with electrified vehicles. Level 1 focuses on general awareness and safety for non-technical staff. Level 2 is designed for technicians carrying out routine servicing and non-high voltage electrical maintenance to be able to carry out a high voltage isolation procedure. Level 3 qualifies technicians to safely repair and replace high-voltage components. Level 4 is the most advanced and is aimed at experienced technicians performing complex diagnostics, system repairs and equips them to work safely on live high voltage systems. We support all four levels with expert-led training that prioritises safety and practical understanding.

To work on EVs, technicians must complete specialist training that covers both safety and technical systems. IMI qualifications are the industry standard in the UK and progress through Levels 1 to 4, depending on the depth of work involved. Level 1 covers awareness, Level 2 focuses on safe maintenance, Level 3 qualifies you for high-voltage repair, and Level 4 trains you for advanced diagnostics and live high voltage work. Our training ensures you not only meet qualification requirements but develop real-world ability and confidence in EV work.

The best course depends on your role and experience. If you're new to EVs, Level 1 provides essential safety awareness. For routine servicing, Level 2 is ideal. Technicians working on high-voltage systems should complete Level 3, while those handling diagnostics and complex repairs will benefit most from Level 4. At Our Virtual Academy, we help you identify and access the right level of training for your career goals, ensuring you develop the knowledge and confidence needed for success.

EV technicians in the UK typically earn between £23,000 and £55,000 per year. Entry-level roles start around £23,500, while technicians with advanced qualifications, such as IMI Level 3 or 4, can earn £35,000 to £40,000 or more. Pay is often higher in main dealerships, electric-only service centres, and high-demand locations. With the rapid growth of the EV industry, demand for skilled technicians is increasing — making this a rewarding and future-proof career choice. While this Awareness course isn't for techs working on vehicles it gives a good foundational understanding should you wish to train further on EVs.

To become an electric car mechanic, start with a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in motor vehicle repair to gain a solid foundation. From there, complete IMI-accredited EV training to work safely on high-voltage systems. Most ICE mechanics begin with Level 2 or 3 EV training, depending on their experience. Level 4 is suited for those focusing on diagnostics and complex repairs. With demand for EV technicians growing, Our Virtual Academy offers flexible, high-quality training to help you stay current, competent, and confident in this evolving field. This Level 1 is a general awareness course and while not focused on vehicles is a good start to understanding EVs and hybrids.

IMI Level 1 Electric Vehicle Awareness is an entry-level qualification that introduces learners to electric and hybrid vehicles. It’s aimed at individuals who may work around EVs but don’t perform repairs — such as sales staff, valeters, or breakdown responders. The course builds basic knowledge about EV types, key components, and safety precautions. It doesn’t qualify someone to work on EVs, but it’s a great first step toward more advanced training. At Our Virtual Academy, we support learners with engaging, practical content that builds a strong foundation for future learning.

The IMI awareness course price varies depending on whether you need the official certificate and whether you're ordering for a group. Individual access without certification is typically more affordable, while adding a certificate increases the cost. Bulk orders for teams or organisations can also reduce the per-person price. At Our Virtual Academy, we offer flexible pricing options to suit your needs, ensuring high-quality EV training remains accessible whether you're learning alone or training a team.