Omnia teacher Anna Nuuja had the opportunity to complete a week-long internship in automotive sales and parts operations at Bilia Olari as part of the AutoCove 2.0 project. The goal of her internship was to deepen her knowledge of the electric vehicle market, as well as the technological advancements in alternative powertrains and driver assistance systems in the automotive industry. Anna noted that the shift towards electrification and the continuous development of driver assistance technologies bring new skill requirements for both vehicle sales and parts operations.
To begin her internship, Anna familiarized herself with Volvo’s product range by exploring the showroom and reading additional information on Volvo’s website to compare models. She quickly discovered the complex terminology involved in the field. Alongside learning about different models, she engaged in insightful conversations with car salespeople on factors influencing customer choices and broader trends in the automotive market. Anna expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome and the valuable time the showroom staff dedicated to her learning experience.
One of the highlights of Anna’s internship had been arranged in advance: she participated in the delivery of a new Volvo EX30 with salesperson Essi. This vehicle was not only the customer’s first Volvo but also their first fully electric car. During the handover, Anna observed as Essi guided the customer through various vehicle features, including controls, display functionality, and individual vehicle settings. Essi also discussed the EU-mandated driver assistance systems that became compulsory in July 2024. Additionally, they set up a Volvo Cars account and connected the Volvo Cars app, enabling the customer to control aspects like locking and cabin temperature remotely from their phone. Anna noted the extensive information new owners need to absorb and recognized the salesperson’s significant role in ensuring a smooth experience.
Anna also had the chance to test-drive the fully electric Volvo EC40. With the guidance of a salesperson who introduced her to the vehicle controls, starting mechanism, and infotainment system, Anna experienced her first drive in a fully electric car, finding the experience both enjoyable and intriguing, especially as no separate ignition was required, a departure from her experience with combustion engine vehicles.
Towards the end of her internship, Anna spent time in the parts operations department, where she discussed brand-specific training for parts salespeople and the impact of evolving technologies on their roles. She learned that vehicle software updates have transformed the responsibilities of parts salespeople, who now request necessary updates directly from the manufacturer and relay them to the workshop through the vehicle’s repair management system. The traditional tasks of delivering physical parts, like oil filters or spark plugs, have been largely replaced by the handling of codes and software materials.
Towards the end of her internship, Anna spent time in the parts operations department, where she discussed brand-specific training for parts salespeople and the impact of evolving technologies on their roles. She learned that vehicle software updates have transformed the responsibilities of parts salespeople, who now request necessary updates directly from the manufacturer and relay them to the workshop through the vehicle’s repair management system. The traditional tasks of delivering physical parts, like oil filters or spark plugs, have been largely replaced by the handling of codes and software materials.
Throughout the week, Anna gathered new insights and ideas to incorporate into her AutoCove 2.0 project modules. She found that deciding on alternative powertrains involves not only understanding technical specifications and range but also considering financial aspects and charging options at home or work.
Reflecting on her time at Bilia Olari, Anna expressed appreciation for the supportive environment, which enriched her skills and increased her confidence in developing modules for the AutoCove 2.0 project. She also highlighted the value of collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners and recognized the importance of her network in organizing student internships. By the end of her internship week, she had arranged a training agreement for a student’s vocational qualification in parts sales at the Bilia Herttoniemi location, supporting both the project and her student’s educational path.
Anna expressed her gratitude to the Bilia Olari staff for a week filled with learning, collaboration, and inspiring discussions about the future of the automotive industry.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
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Auto Cove 2.0