Will careers in electric vehicles sector be in-demand in Asia?

Careers related to electric vehicles (EVs) have either emerged or become in demand due to the presence of EVs in the Asian market and different parts of the world. It paved the way for the need for professionals, from electricians and automotive technicians to other related occupations.

Developing a specialized workforce is crucial in the development and maintenance of EVs. There is also a need for experts who can manage the logistics services and delivery of the vehicles.

From handling raw materials to delivering finished products, EV supply chain management requires a unique set of skills to ensure sustainable operations. Hence, EV innovations in Asia present a future for certain job seekers.

Efforts in the logistics sector

Select logistics companies have been transitioning from using gas-powered cars to EVs as they lean towards environmental-friendly operations. In turn, there is potential for a boost in the demand for logistics jobs that are relevant to the EV industry.

Logistics services is a key factor in the said industry’s growth. Logistics companies like UPS and FedEx started to adopt EVs for logistics transportation. 

FedEx has set a goal to convert its entire parcel pickup and delivery fleet to zero-emission electric vehicles by 2040. The company aims to have 50% of its global vehicles become electric by 2025 and 100% by 2030.

In line with this commitment, FedEx made efforts to advance its sustainability goals in Asia. It was deploying electric vehicles in India for zero-emissions last-mile delivery. This move supports FedEx’s mission to reduce its carbon dioxide production in the region.

“FedEx’s sustainability goals drive us towards a greener future,”

said Suvendu Choudhury, of FedEx Express India Operations. 

UPS commits to having carbon neutrality by 2050. The company has EVs in Asia, Europe, and North America.

According to the company, using EVs in China may reduce over 4,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. It is equal to taking nearly 900 traditional cars off the road.

“As a leader in green logistics solutions in Asia Pacific, UPS is committed to making a meaningful impact,”

said Monrudee Theeraworawit, director of China marketing at UPS.

The shipping industry is also a key player in the supply chain of EVs. Companies like DHL and Amazon are investing in EVs to reduce their carbon footprint.

Amazon has taken a significant step towards 100% renewable energy usage by 2025. The company made an order of 100,000 EVs from Rivian.

DHL Group has committed $8 billion over the next ten years and aims to have over 80,000 EVs on the road by 2030. The Group is collaborating with Daimler Trucks North America and Penske to achieve this goal.

As a part of such effort, DHL Express, a subsidiary of DHL Group, has set a goal to have over 1,000 EVs in the Asia Pacific region by 2024. Wherein this investment in EVs will enhance the company’s capabilities in EV logistics and further its sustainability goals.

“At DHL Express, our investments are always geared towards reducing our carbon footprint. The advancements in electric vehicle technology play a crucial role in achieving our goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050,”

said Julian Neo, the Managing Director of DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei.

The roster of opportunities

Aside from logistics jobs, there is a wide range of careers that covers electric vehicles. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a high demand for skilled technicians, electricians, and engineers in the EV industry. Particularly those with experience in battery technology and electrification are needed.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) noted that the growth of the EV market is an example of how the energy shift presents significant job demands. They deemed that it is important to invest in training and education. Doing so will result in a workforce that can meet the demands of this rapidly growing industry. 

Additionally, the IEA foresees a 30% global share of vehicle sales by 2030. Therefore, there will be more jobs for electricians, as the market value of EV charging could increase over 20 times by 2030.

The EV industry is also attracting investment and innovation, with new startups and established players. They are investing in the development of new technologies and products. Such presents exciting opportunities for professionals in the industry to be at the forefront of innovation and the shift to a more sustainable future.

Investment in the trend toward Automation, Connectivity, Electrification, and Smart Mobility (ACES) has seen growth over the past decade.  McKinsey & Company noted that nearly $330 billion is being poured into over 2,000 mobility companies focused on the said area.

Therefore, industry analysts deem that the rise of EVs is not just limited to the auto industry but is expected to have a widespread impact on other sectors. It will create new careers and business opportunities across the entire value chain.

Jumpstarting careers that are relevant to handling EVs

With the gradual increase in the demand for EVs, now is the time to consider a career in the EV industry or any related logistics jobs. To enter the exciting world of EVs, obtaining certification as a Tesla certified electrician can be a valuable step.

Likewise, taking other relevant certifications will also help aspirants who want to pursue a career in the industry understand EV technologies and trends.  Some fields of study are electrical engineering, battery technology, and sustainable energy. 

Reaching out to an automotive industrial electrical contractor is a must-consider. Doing so will aid in gathering information on certification processes and EV training opportunities.

Meanwhile, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) Fleet created the  EV Champion Training Series. Said four-part course program provides a comprehensive understanding of the EV industry.

On the side, in Asia, governments and industry players are taking steps to ensure that the region is well-equipped with a skilled workforce to meet the demand for EVs.

For example, the Land Transport Authority in Singapore started initiatives to upskill and certify professionals in the EV industry in 2022. Wherein they focus on the local EV industry and building a skilled workforce that can contribute to the development of sustainable transportation systems.

Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has formed a partnerships with 22 organizations. It includes automotive industry partners, vehicle fleet owners, training providers, and other government agencies.

Additionally, private organizations and educational institutions are also offering EV training and development programs for workers in the EV industry. DIYguru, a training platform, aimed at expanding its EV workforce training program across Southeast Asia. Therefore, DIYguru is working with a Malaysian joint venture company.

The said program provides EV training for individuals interested in having careers in the EV industry. It also aims to address the need for skilled workers in the region.

Another noteworthy platform is the GreenLancer which offers resources and EV training for professionals. GreenLancer provides a comprehensive guide to careers related to electric vehicles. It also covers important topics. These comprise of the impact of EVs on the environment and the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.

Tata Motors has been investing in the EV training of its electronic and electrical workforce. Thus, they partnered with Graphic Era Hill University to upskill their workforce and cultivate in-demand technical expertise.

Overall, the importance of EV training and development opportunities is a must. Professionals must take advantage of the opportunities to upskill that are available to them in order to fit into careers in the electric vehicles sector. With the right combination of education, experience, and passion, anyone can start a fulfilling career or be involved in any related logistics jobs in the rapidly growing world of EVs.