The Group Training Academy (TGTA) has been awarded a Professional Tool & Equipment News (PTEN) 2021 Innovation Award. TGTA was honored for its specialized hybrid training tool, a modified Toyota Prius, which is used for hands-on training courses.

“Since its inception, The Group Training Academy has been setting the standard when it comes to innovative training,” said Larry Pavey, CEO, Automotive Parts Services Group (The Group). “Our electronic educational vehicle, the TGTA Toyota Prius, is one of the most-talked-about training tools in the aftermarket. We want to thank PTEN for recognizing our team with this prestigious award and thank the readers of PTEN for their interest in The Group Training Academy.” 

The modified Toyota Prius is used as part of the TGTA course entitled “Electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicle Technician Training,” which is designed to educate experienced automotive professionals on proper and safe procedures for diagnosing and repairing electric vehicles. The course is also flexible enough to train those in secondary and post-secondary education programs.

Developed through a partnership with Automotive Video Innovations (AVI) and John Forro at AST Training, the Prius provides participants in the training courses a chance to interact with non-energized, high voltage components and learn the proper techniques and personal protective equipment needed for a safe environment. 

The vehicle contains energized versions of the components for use when the instructor feels the class is ready to move on into an energized arena. It also features factory scan tool capabilities, visible high-voltage components and cables, and a fault box.

Chosen by a panel of judges consisting of technicians and shop owners, the PTEN Innovation Awards recognize products that respond to the automotive repair industry’s market challenges with creativity and innovation. Tools are evaluated based on their ability to make vehicle repair and diagnosis easier and more efficient, and make shops more productive.

To learn more about the TGTA electric and hybrid electric training courses and other training offerings, visit www.TheGroupTrainingAcademy.com.