SAE International has partnered with Automotive Research and Design (AR&D) to provide the training in support of this Certificate of Competency. Training by AR&D, coupled with the credential from SAE International is available to technicians, engineers, shop owners, instructors, and other automotive professional sectors.

Participants will receive training provided by AR&D, along with a credential from SAE International. The duration of the course is five days, four of which are spent in a hands-on and lecture environment with AR&D instructors. Each day includes daily assessments to ensure each participant will be prepared for a practical hands-on and written exam on the fifth and final day of the course. Upon successful completion of the course and exams, participants will receive the SAE International Advanced HEV Diagnostics Certificate of Competency.

The practical goal of this credential is to expand the hybrid diagnostic processes and systems information currently used by the service repair industry, and use additional diagnostic testing methods and equipment that will compliment OEM on-board diagnostic systems.

—Dr. Mark Quarto, Chief Technical Officer and lead instructor for AR&D

In addition to bridging that gap, the credential will also complement and help prepare techs for the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification in Hybrid Vehicle Systems available in 2014.

Classes in 2013 are limited to 20 participants each and will be hosted in Flat Rock, NC; Madison, WI; Portland, OR; and Port Angeles, WA.