The Independent Garage Association (IGA) will be delivering a technical demonstration on the health and safety of hybrid vehicles at an open evening event at one of its members, PK Automotive Solutions, taking place on 27 November in Lincoln.

The event, which will be attended by government officials, is being held in association with The Institute of the Motor Industry, which will be delivering a presentation about the financial benefit to businesses of taking on an apprentice.

Dr Paul Spears, head of the Return on Investment Programme at the IMI, will give a brief presentation about the Return on Investment for Apprenticeships, highlighting key findings from the IMI’s recent investment study. Attendees will also have the opportunity to gain insight into new hybrid technologies through demonstrations by Bosch UK, all of which are designed to benefit workshop technicians and mechanics.

IGA director Stuart James commented: “Events like this are important for the independent garage sector, as many SME’s would see an apprentice as an extra cost which they cannot afford, as opposed to an asset that they cannot afford to be without.

“As the automotive industry evolves, it’s imperative to stay up-to-date with the latest technological developments. Further training and apprenticeships will guarantee a regular source of income and a sufficient skills knowledge base for the future of independent garages.”