JK Auto’s role in accelerating the NEV Industry in Sri Lanka
View(s):While the rapid expansion of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) is helping to transform the way ‘we’ travel — a lesser appreciated benefit of the industry in Sri Lanka has been its potential for generating new high-value industries and employment opportunities for skilled EV technicians.
Recognising this potential, John Keells CG Auto, the authorised distributor of BYD in Sri Lanka, has established the country’s first dedicated NEV service centre to provide workers with an opportunity to learn best practices in EV maintenance, and ensure the smooth running on the island’s emerging NEV fleet while actively laying a foundation for Sri Lanka’s future economic resilience and leadership in sustainable mobility, the company said in a media release.
Meanwhile the first shipment of BYD’s cutting-edge NEVs has arrived at Hambantota Port (see picture above).
Across the globe, the NEV revolution is generating demand for expertise in advanced engineering, battery technology, software diagnostics, and digital infrastructure. Sri Lanka, still in the early stages of this transition, has an opportunity to position itself at the forefront of this economic shift by building a workforce that is future-ready. Unlike conventional vehicles that rely on mechanical components, EVs are built on complex electrical systems and cutting-edge software. A transition to green mobility also requires a parallel shift towards highly specialised workforces and infrastructure to maintain this new emerging NEV fleet.
This in turn can open up opportunities in roles such as battery specialists, powertrain specialists, and electrical system engineers. The automotive service industry itself is evolving—moving away from traditional mechanical repairs and toward high-tech maintenance, creating an entirely new category of employment.
The rise of EVs is fundamentally reshaping career pathways in the automotive sector. While traditional vehicle servicing relies on mechanical expertise, EV maintenance demands proficiency in high-voltage battery management, electronic diagnostics, and software integration. This shift is creating a wave of specialised job opportunities, requiring a workforce trained in advanced engineering and digital technologies, the statement said.
By offering structured training programmes, the service centre is addressing a critical skills gap. Technicians are equipped with the expertise required to handle advanced diagnostics, ensuring they can service the next generation of vehicles with precision and efficiency. According to Chathuranga Kahawatta, Head of After-Sales Services at John Keells CG Auto, the nature of vehicle maintenance is evolving rapidly. “EVs differ significantly from traditional vehicles. While conventional vehicles are centred around the engine, the core of an EV is its battery and electronic components. This requires a completely different skill set for maintenance and repairs. Our service centre provides specialised training for both technicians and customers, ensuring smooth adoption of NEVs in Sri Lanka,” he said.
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