Study reveals the automotive roles that could face a complete shortage in the next 25 years
The UK automotive industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by cutting-edge technological advancements and a shifting automotive landscape. However, it’s not just the technology that’s evolving – the roles that support this vital sector are also at a crossroads. While many positions remain essential today, some are at risk of disappearing entirely.
Recent online UK searches show a 25% decline in interest for ‘auto job’ over the past month, indicating a broader shift in career interests across the nation. In response to these trends, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has conducted an in-depth study using search volume analysis to identify which automotive roles are facing potential shortages by 2050, and which driving jobs are rising in popularity.
These are the auto jobs that could face a complete shortage in the next 25 years
HGV drivers could face a complete shortage by 2029
The UK is facing a growing shortage of HGV (lorry) drivers, with monthly searches for ‘lorry driver jobs’ at just 4,400, which shows a predicted complete shortage by 2029.
Despite a 20.9% increase in drivers between 2023 and 2024, the sector continues to struggle due to an ageing workforce and low pay, which is 13.9% below the national average.
Over 50% of drivers are aged 50+, putting many close to retirement. By 2029, the UK may need 200,000 more drivers to meet demand. In August 2024 alone, vacancies topped 20,000, with the South East accounting for 13% of advertised roles.
Keith Hawes, director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, explains that autonomous HGVs are unlikely to fill the skills gap: “The development of autonomous driving depends on all vehicles being able to communicate seamlessly with one another.
The idea of a 42-tonne lorry, complete with trailer and load, being driven autonomously on open roads still feels far off. In my view, we’re unlikely to see this as a mainstream reality before 2050.”
Online deliveries could grind to a halt beyond 2037
The UK currently employs 246,000 delivery drivers, but 30,000 more are needed to meet the rising demand. The number of open vacancies for delivery drivers hit over 135,000 in April 2025, a 792.6% year-on-year surge, pointing to a potential full shortage by 2037.
Major employers include Just Eat, Yodel, Tesco, and Royal Mail, with high demand in food delivery, e-commerce, and supermarket services. To prevent further decline, the industry must invest in training and development to attract new talent.
We need more vehicle technicians, or EVs could be in trouble by 2047
Vehicle technician jobs in the UK could face a complete shortage by 2047. Although there are currently 245,000 technicians (as of early 2025), the shift to full electrification by 2035 is increasing demand for EV specialists, yet only 24% of technicians are qualified to work on EVs.
The current rapid growth of electric vehicles is outpacing the supply of skilled workers, while an ageing workforce and low apprentice recruitment are worsening the shortfall.
What are the FOUR key changes in the industry that will impact automotive roles?
Specialist training & investment: Servicing EVs requires specialised training and equipment. This investment may deter smaller service businesses, and with reduced servicing needs, both labour hours and parts revenue will decline.
Rise of IT-based maintenance: EVs rely heavily on software, allowing manufacturers (OEMs) to update systems and adjust vehicle settings remotely, reducing the need for traditional service technicians. As a result, there may be a greater demand for IT specialists rather than mechanics.
Changes in manufacturing: EVs require fewer mechanical components, reducing the need for heavily engineered parts. Therefore, manufacturers will use more plastics and lightweight composite materials.
Battery disposal & reuse: In the UK, currently, a combination of both reusing and recycling is used for EV batteries, depending on their suitability, as UK law bans landfilling or incinerating EV batteries. A new industry must be prepared to manage the increased number of batteries and ensure efficient end-of-life disposal and repurposing of EV batteries.