Are you looking to upskill fast in advanced manufacturing technologies and tackle critical skill gaps in the UK Automotive industry? At 3D 360, we offer comprehensive training programmes that are funded and free to eligible learners. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the sector, our courses will help you stay ahead of the curve and secure a strong footing in an industry that is vital to the UK economy.
The UK automotive industry plays a vital role in the national economy, providing direct employment to more than 737,000 people, including 146,000 in vehicle manufacturing. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, this sector generates £93 billion in turnover and adds £22 billion in value to the economy, with annual investments typically around £4 billion.
However, there is a growing demand for skilled workers to manage and implement advanced manufacturing processes. In a recent policy paper, the Department for Work & Pensions stated that “addressing skills gaps in manufacturing is essential for strengthening the nation’s global competitiveness.” This is where 3D 360’s free and funded training can make a crucial difference.
We have designed a DWP Funded Skills Bootcamp that covers a range of sought-after subjects, ensuring you or your team can master the latest methods and technologies used in the automotive sector. You can enrol in the complete Bootcamp or choose individual fast upskilling courses if you need more focused learning.
With the UK government setting targets to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, automotive manufacturers are accelerating electric and hybrid vehicle production. The transition to advanced manufacturing and EV production is creating a growing demand for skilled workers proficient in new technologies and processes.
Workers must be proficient in areas like battery systems, electric powertrains and charging infrastructure. The Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) has reported that thousands of jobs could be created by the electrification trend, but the UK must train and recruit engineers, technicians and safety specialists who can develop, manufacture and maintain advanced drivetrains.
In this module, you will learn about the various types of electric and hybrid vehicles, including battery electric, plug in hybrids and range extended models. We will cover best practices for maintenance and repair on high voltage electrical systems, as well as the different charging systems and connections used in the industry. Safety is paramount in work environments that involve electric drive systems or energy storage devices, so you will gain the practical know how to protect yourself, your team and your equipment.
3D CAD is essential for precise automotive component design and may other aspects such as optimising aerodynamics and enhancing safety features like collision avoidance systems. 3D CAD software helps automotive firms conceptualise and engineer new models or components efficiently.
It is used for designing entire vehicle platforms as well as single parts, such as suspension arms, exhaust systems and body panels. In one example, Jaguar Land Rover announced the use of 3D CAD to speed up prototype creation, reducing development times by over 20 percent
A major project that demonstrated the application of 3D CAD is the development of lightweight platforms for electric SUVs, requiring intricate design of battery enclosures and crash structures. The digital environment allowed teams to iterate rapidly on safety, aerodynamics and space utilisation.
The UK Commission for Employment and Skills has identified a need to upskill existing engineers and attract new talent into technical design roles, projecting an 18 percent increase in demand for 3D CAD capabilities in automotive by 2025.
From concept to production, learn the skills needed to create 3D CAD models and accelerate design cycles, making you invaluable in modern vehicle development.
Additive manufacturing is employed in rapid prototyping, stronger and lighter components and even batch production and tooling. It speeds up product development by delivering design iterations more quickly than conventional approaches.
Examples include printing customised brake calipers, engine brackets, jigs and fixtures that help on assembly lines. The High Value Manufacturing Catapult has cited a project where a UK firm 3D printed lightweight components that enabled a 12 percent reduction in vehicle weight for a specialty performance car.
Case studies even include small suppliers printing replacement parts on demand to reduce inventory expenses. Rolls-Royce has also tested metal 3D printing for complex aerospace and automotive crossover applications.
The job market for additive manufacturing has grown steadily, but the gap in skills remains substantial. Many technicians require training in AM processes, materials handling and product qualification methods.
This hands-on course covers building and maintaining a 3D printer, printing techniques, materials and real-world applications, helping you speed up workflows and reduce costs.
Industry 4.0 encompasses digital connectivity, data analytics and smarter supply chain management. In UK automotive, it is evident in predictive maintenance of assembly lines, digital twins of production facilities and real time supply chain visibility.
A notable example is BMW Group’s Oxford facility, which employs automated data capture on the Mini production line to detect faults and predict machine wear.
The Catapult network has supported projects that connect sensors across multiple tiers of suppliers, with shared data used to reduce downtime and optimise inventory.
Industry 4.0 training needs cover data analytics, programming for connected machines and cybersecurity for factory systems. According to Make UK, nearly 70 percent of manufacturers face recruitment difficulties for roles requiring these digital skill sets.
Explore the principles driving automation and data exchange to stay competitive in a market that increasingly relies on smart manufacturing processes.
Robotics plays a major role in automotive manufacturing especially repetitive tasks such as welding, painting and parts assembly. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) move subassemblies, while collaborative robots (cobots) work alongside staff in tasks like light assembly or quality checks.
Nissan’s Sunderland plant employs robotic welding on body shells, improving speed and consistency. Automation helps with volume production of entire chassis structures, engine blocks and gearbox casings. A case study from Make UK illustrates how a Midlands based component supplier introduced robot cells that raised productivity by 25 percent.
Despite these successes, the UK’s robot density remains below some European counterparts, leading Make UK to call for more robotics technicians, maintenance engineers and automation programmers to keep pace with global best practice.
This course module provides an essential foundation in robotics, covering everything from industrial applications to new developments, ensuring participants are prepared for this rapidly advancing field.
Virtual reality, augmented reality and digital twins are increasingly adopted in training, vehicle design and factory planning. For example, AR headsets can guide workers during complex assembly tasks, showing step by step instructions.
Several UK manufacturers have piloted VR for training operators on new equipment without needing a physical prototype.
A case study from the Welsh Automotive Forum describes how a tier one supplier used VR to simulate an entire production line layout, helping to identify bottlenecks before equipment was installed.
Digital twinning also supports advanced factory simulations, enabling engineers to experiment with different layouts and processes. Skills in AR/VR software development, 3D modelling and systems integration are in short supply, according to the Automotive Council UK.
Automotive firms deploy AI for quality inspection, demand forecasting and personalised vehicle features. Connected vehicles generate substantial data, making cybersecurity essential.
The Department for Business and Trade (formerly BEIS) has co funded initiatives to help SMEs adopt secure AI solutions in production and supply chain tracking.
A national project within the Catapult network showcased AI driven inspection systems that reduced defects by up to 30 percent for an automotive supplier, saving costs and time (HVMC).
However, SMMT research indicates a shortage of data scientists, AI developers and cyber security specialists with automotive knowledge. This has prompted calls for more targeted apprenticeship standards and continued professional development programmes.
IIoT is used to gather sensor data from assembly lines, robots and supply chain nodes, allowing real time adjustments in throughput or maintenance schedules.
A well publicised example involves Ford’s engine plant in Dagenham, where sensors monitor machining conditions, detect anomalies and automatically adjust cutting parameters.
Job growth trends in IIoT are positive, with advanced analytics, data fusion and edge computing roles opening across major automotive players and their suppliers.
However, the Automotive Council UK cautions that the UK must train more engineers with the capability to integrate sensors, secure networks and interpret data effectively.
Beyond in house usage, additive manufacturing (AM) enables new revenue streams. UK based firms offer custom part production for collectors, restorers or motorsport enthusiasts.
On demand manufacturing services reduce warehouse costs by creating parts when needed, while prototyping bureaus serve multiple OEMs with quick turnaround times.
Digital product design is another business model, where teams develop 3D printable files that customers or partners can manufacture locally. The SMMT highlights the importance of these models for supporting UK suppliers in global value chains.
Make UK estimates that adopting additive manufacturing at scale could add £3.5 billion to UK manufacturing by 2030, but success hinges on skills in 3D modelling, material science and post processing.
Go beyond the basics of 3D Printing to uncover the broader spectrum of additive manufacturing methods. Find out how automotive specialists and businesses can turn 3D Printing capabilities into a revenue stream. Gain insights into market opportunities and explore strategies for monetising your newly acquired skills.
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By investing in these skills, you’ll be well-positioned to contribute to the UK’s ambitious goals in the automotive sector, including the government’s targets for zero-emission vehicles. You can choose from a range of funded and bespoke training courses.
Employed, Self-Employed & Unemployed learners - learn all core aspects of EV and Hybrid vehicles as part of a funded and comprehensive training programme
For Individuals
Employed, Self-Employed & Unemployed learners - learn all core aspects of advanced manufacturing as part of a funded and comprehensive training programme
For Companies
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