Independent used car dealers are receiving free training through a new online course called EV Retail Ready, designed to help them answer questions about electric vehicles (EVs). The initiative, developed by the BVRLA (vehicle rental and leasing trade body), IMDA (independent dealer organisation), and EVA England, aims to equip dealers with the knowledge needed to sell EVs effectively. Unlike franchised dealers who receive support directly from car manufacturers, independent dealers often lack such resources. The course provides practical information on topics like charging, running costs, and the customer buying process, helping dealers meet growing demand for used electric cars. Electric vehicles have become a significant part of the UK’s automotive market. In 2022, they made up 16.6% of new car sales, rising to 23.4% in 2025, and reaching 25.6% in the first eight months of 2026. While leasing companies and company car drivers initially drove demand, more EVs are now entering the used market as their first owners move on. This shift has led to an increase in used EV sales, but dealers need support to navigate the unique aspects of selling these vehicles. The EV Retail Ready course is designed to be completed in two hours per person, with four modules covering the business case for EVs, energy and charging, ownership costs, and the customer journey. Dealers can access the training at their own pace, and individuals who complete the programme receive recognition. Dealerships can also earn accreditation if all customer-facing staff complete the course. The initiative has support from several industry players, including Lex Autolease, Motability Operations, and Octopus Electric Vehicles, and includes access to Clearwatt’s EV Explorer, a tool that provides detailed information on EV performance, batteries, and charging. Patrick Cresswell of Clearwatt, one of the course’s supporters, noted that while official range figures are useful for comparing vehicles, they don’t reflect real-world driving conditions. Factors like temperature and driving style can affect performance, and this can change over time for used vehicles. Richard Norris, founder of Drivegreen, a used EV dealership, emphasized the need for dealers to understand the practical aspects of living with an EV to address customer concerns effectively. He praised the EV Retail Ready programme for covering the training, product knowledge, and customer insights needed to succeed in the EV market. Independent dealers can register for the course through the IMDA website at no cost. The goal is to ensure that sales teams are well-prepared to explain both the vehicles on display and the realities of owning an electric car. This training is expected to improve the customer experience and help dealers build trust in the growing EV market.