Diversity of people and products strengthen UK automotive
As future leaders in England and Wales received their A-Level results yesterday, now embarking on the next exciting chapter of their lives, it’s a reminder that our industry is built on generations of ambitious and talented young people joining our ranks. Attracting fresh talent brings new experiences and aspirations, to skill up and drive new success. Indeed, as our industry transitions to zero emission and self-driving technology, businesses need entirely different skills and workforce strategies – delivered through apprenticeships, traineeships and targeted upskilling – to stay competitive.
Diverse recruitment is important to these goals given it’s proven to benefit creativity, productivity and profitability. Businesses must, therefore, actively promote the attractive opportunities our sector has to offer to people from across all society, from young people to ex-Armed Forces personnel, career returners and underrepresented groups such as women, racial and ethnic minorities and people with disabilities. After all, a sector that reflects our society will ensure we can benefit all in that society.
The UK automotive industry is already one of the most technically diverse, from cutting-edge light vehicles and components to ever greener trucks and buses providing essential services for our economy and society. It’s encouraging that SMMT data published yesterday shows robust new truck fleet demand, with zero emission HGV uptake growing in volume and market share. For the new bus, coach and minibus market, meanwhile, a fifth consecutive quarter of growth means more zero emission buses are being rolled out in Britain than anywhere in Europe. These are remarkable achievements with real benefits – keeping the country moving while boosting user experiences, cutting carbon, improving local air quality and reducing noise pollution.
We have the potential to be a world leader in the truck and bus transition, but sustainable change demands compelling incentives and infrastructure which make operators confident about their own path to decarbonisation. For HGVs, an up-to-date Plug-in Truck Grant must encompass the greater choice of zero emission HGV models on the UK market, not just those available when the grant was launched. The bus sector would gain from the clarity of a timetable to arrive at net zero but, similarly, only with suitably ambitious and up-to-date support in place for vehicle and depot investments.
While success tomorrow calls for action today, taking time off is equally important, allowing time for family, friends and pastimes. So as we soak up the dog days of summer, and the end of the summer shutdown period for many, I hope you’ve enjoyed some well-earned rest or will have some soon to come.
