As India Auto Inc scrambles to upskill its existing workforce and recruit new skilled personnel, there is also a need for its workforce to be future ready. With the era of electric vehicle already underway and taking shape in India, there is a growing need for EV-knowledgeable mechanics particularly in the aftermarket.

Lubricants major Castrol India, which has an ongoing mechanic upskilling programme, like the Super Mechanic Contest, and to contribute towards the transition to greener and more sustainable mobility, has introduced an EV-readiness training program for mechanics.

The first such EV-readiness training program was held from September 13-16 in New Delhi, covering over 100 top tier car and bike mechanics. The training was supported and endorsed by the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) of India. Participating mechanics had the chance to preview the 'Castrol On' range of advanced e-fluids for improved electric vehicle performance, which was launched globally in 2021 and will soon be launched in India.

The 'Castrol On' range of advanced e-fluids for improved electric vehicle performance, which was launched globally in 2021, is to launched in India soon.

ASDC certification for EV-skilled mechanics
The training included an eight-hour module where car and bike mechanics got to learn the basics of EVs and acquired diagnostic skills for EV service & maintenance. After completion of the training, the mechanics were evaluated through a quiz to test their knowledge and understanding on EVs. They were also awarded with a certificate of completion at ASDC’s Skill India Conclave held on September 23 in Delhi. Based on a strong and successful response from mechanics, Castrol India plans to roll out its EV-readiness training to other cities in the country.

Speaking about the initiative, Sandeep Sangwan, Managing Director, Castrol India, said, “We have always supported the mechanic community through various initiatives on the business and social front, be it the Castrol Super Mechanic contest or our CSR program: Castrol Eklavya. Our training programs for independent auto mechanics are specially designed to enable knowledge transfer around the latest automotive technologies and help them stay updated on changing trends. Through our training and certification courses, mechanics feel empowered to deliver best-in-class service experiences to their customers. It also helps them grow and expand their business and secure their livelihoods. With electric vehicles coming into the market, we see ourselves as an acceleration partner for helping mechanics and workshops get EV-ready.”

Arindam Lahiri, CEO, ASDC said, “We are happy that leading industry players are associating with ASDC for their skill training initiatives. All existing job roles at ASDC have been upgraded to reflect the changes happening in the automotive industry. We have also roped in industry experts to launch new courses and curriculum related to electric vehicles."