ATA scheme goes digital

IMI launches unique accreditation for radio installers and technicians
In readiness for the Government’s digital radio switchover, a new benchmark standard for automotive technicians is being launched today by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), the professional association for individuals working in the retail automotive sector.

Announced at the Drive 2 Digital conference in London, Digital Radio Installation Technician is the latest addition to the IMI’s successful Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) scheme, which has seen more than 30,000 individuals achieve recognition of their current competence, since being introduced in 2005.

New ATA route

Aimed at specialist auto-electricians and retailers of in-car audio equipment*, the new ATA route will require technicians to undertake a half day assessment at an ATA Approved Centre, to prove their competence in the installation of digital antennae and DAB adaptor kits, as well as the replacement of DAB head units and fault diagnosis.

Developed in partnership with Digital Radio UK and a pilot group of motor industry training providers, retailers and vehicle manufacturers, the IMI anticipates significant demand for the accreditation, as motorists require upgrading of their audio equipment in advance of the switchover. 

Sarah Sillars, Executive Chair of the IMI, who are the governing body for the ATA scheme, said:

"It’s testament to the strength of the ATA brand within the automotive sector that Digital Radio UK has sought our involvement in the creation of a solution that will recognise technical competence in this field. We are approaching a crucial point in advancing the country’s communication infrastructure and are proud to have collaborated in delivering a new benchmark standard for the retail automotive sector.”

For over seven years, the ATA scheme has been developed to recognise the current competence of individuals working in all areas of the retail automotive trade, including car maintenance and servicing, body repair, automotive glazing and roadside assistance.

In achieving the unique accreditation, which lasts for three years, individuals have proven their skills and knowledge and signed up to a professional Code of Conduct.

The development of the ATA Digital Audio Broadcasting route forms part of a wider Government sponsored initiative with the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) to ensure that the current and future skills needs of the sector are met.

Information

*Statistics provided by CAP/ SMMT show that 26% of new vehicles registered in Q2 2012 were fitted with digital radio as standard, up from 12% in Q2 2011 and 22.5% in Q1 2012.

This is also the first quarter that over half (53%) of all new cars had digital radio available either as standard or as an option.

According to GfK, year to date sales of digital radio car adapters has increased by +43% but sales units remain relatively small (less than 100k pa) due to high unit cost and lack of consumer understanding and appreciation of the benefits.

Over 300 delegates are expected to attend the Drive 2 Digital conference, including all major vehicle and radio manufacturers, retailers and broadcasters.