By Nick Carey

(Reuters) – The shift to electric vehicles will force huge changes in the auto industry and require EU backing for ‘reskilling’ programs to help workers prepare for a zero-emission future, according to a report published on Tuesday.

A trade group called the Platform for Electromobility stated that a Boston Consulting Group study showed that by 2030, the European car industry’s employment would drop to 1%, from 5.7 millions people now, due to the switch towards electric cars.

However, the number of jobs in traditional combustion engine suppliers and manufacturers will fall by 20% and 42% respectively. This means that there will be a total loss of 500,000 jobs. According to the study, suppliers using zero-emission technology, such as those who work in manufacturing, will see an increase of 300,000 jobs. This is a 10% rise.

European Commission proposes a complete ban on diesel and new gasoline vehicles starting 2035.

The European Commission has proposed a ban on new gasoline and diesel cars starting in 2035. Automakers warned of the danger to jobs at traditional combustion engine plant plants. They have asked the European Union for assistance to reduce the negative impact that the switch to electric could have on these workers.

Platform for Electromobility claimed that the study forecasts large job gains in the energy industry.

The group said the EU, governments and companies should focus on investing in education, training, ‘upskilling’ and

‘reskilling’ of workers to “ensure no one is left behind” as the industry makes the transition to electric vehicles.

Arne Richters, Platform for Electromobility Chair, said that “the auto industry is so strategically important for Europe across all the board involving an awfully lot of people who reside everywhere. So it’s important for the EU to work with member countries on accompanying policy.” It is crucial to make this a priority and to reskill.

The group represents a number of organizations and corporations including carmakers Tesla (NASDAQ:) Inc, Renault (PA:) and Nissan (OTC:), charging company ChargePoint, and U.S. conglomerate 3M.