Free EV sales training launched for independent dealers

Independent dealers can now enrol in EV Retail Ready, a free online training programme launched in October 2026 by the BVRLA, the Independent Motor Dealers Association and EVA England. The four‑module course is designed to boost knowledge of used electric vehicles as their share of new registrations climbs to 25.6%.

Key takeaways

• EV Retail Ready offers four online modules covering commercial, charging, running costs and customer journey.
• Training takes up to two hours and provides accreditation for individual staff and whole dealerships.
• Participants also receive free access to the ClearWatt EV Explorer tool for model‑specific battery information.
• Programme launches in October 2026 and is free for all independent car dealers.
• Used EV numbers rise as BEV registrations reached 25.6% by August 2026.

Training providers and partners

The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, the Independent Motor Dealers Association and EVA England have teamed up to create the EV Retail Ready programme. Their aim is to give independent retailers the practical knowledge needed to sell used electric cars.

Support comes from Lex Autolease, mfldirect, Octopus Electric Vehicles and Zenith, who have contributed expertise and resources to the online course.

Why independent dealers need support

Franchised dealers often rely on manufacturer‑backed training, but independent businesses typically lack such resources. As more EVs move into the second‑hand market, dealers must understand technical and commercial aspects to service customers effectively.

Earlier research by EVA England found only around a third of EV drivers rated their handover experience positively, with one in ten describing it as poor. Better‑trained staff can improve these outcomes.

What the EV Retail Ready course covers

The curriculum consists of four modules: commercial viability, energy and charging, running costs and the customer journey. Each module can be completed at the dealer’s own pace, with the whole programme taking up to two hours.

Upon successful completion, staff earn accreditation, and dealerships can achieve a collective accreditation when all customer‑facing personnel finish the training. Graduates also gain access to the ClearWatt EV Explorer tool, which provides detailed battery, charging and real‑world range data for each model.

Growth of the used EV market

Fully electric registrations rose from 16.6% of new cars in 2022 to 23.4% in 2025 and reached 25.6% by the end of August 2026, according to SMMT figures. Leasing firms and company car fleets drive a large portion of this demand, pushing more EVs into the used market.

As the supply of second‑hand EVs expands, independent dealers are positioned to capture a growing customer base seeking affordable electric options.

What this means for dealers

The free training equips dealers with the confidence to answer technical questions and address common buyer hesitations. Accredited staff can differentiate their showrooms, offering a higher standard of advice and handover experience.

Access to the ClearWatt EV Explorer tool further enhances sales conversations, allowing dealers to present accurate range and charging information, which can shorten the sales cycle and increase conversion rates.

Frequently asked questions

How can independent dealers enrol in the EV Retail Ready programme?

Dealers register through the Independent Motor Dealers Association website, create an account and then access the four online modules. Completion can be timed to suit individual schedules, and no payment is required.

What benefits does the ClearWatt EV Explorer tool provide to sales staff?

ClearWatt delivers model‑specific data on battery capacity, charging times and realistic driving range. This information helps salespeople answer customer queries confidently, reducing uncertainty and supporting a smoother handover process.