Global Updates in Motor and Digital Insurance: Trends, Regulations, and Innovations

Bill 3 would tie premium discounts to vehicle owner rating

9 Dec 2025

Manitoba, Canada has reintroduced Bill 3, which aims to clarify how its public auto insurer must apply premium discounts. The amendment would require that any discount be based on the driver safety rating of the registered vehicle owner, with exceptions allowed only when that owner does not have a valid licence. It also updates the definition of the driver safety rating system, tying it directly to factors recorded — or not recorded — in a person’s driving record. The bill removes outdated date references and repeals certain subsections to streamline the statute. Bill 3 is still early in the legislative process and has not yet passed second reading.

New EU regulation affects all cars — car owners should know the benefits

9 Dec 2025

A new EU law now requires car manufacturers to disclose much more data collected by vehicles, giving drivers more insight and control over information gathered by their cars. Under the EU Data Act — effective since 12 September 2025 — owners can access, delete or share vehicle data free of charge, even for cars they already own. This opens up benefits like cheaper insurance if you choose to share driving data, easier repairs at independent garages, and using third‑party apps without losing warranty. Manufacturers must inform users in advance which data is collected and how it can be accessed — via an app or web portal — to comply with the law.

SECP orders insurers to join Motor Insurance Repository

8 Dec 2025

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has mandated all non-life insurers and general takaful operators offering motor coverage to join the new Motor Insurance Repository (MIR). The MIR, created through an agreement between insurers, takaful operators, and the Central Depository Company, serves as a secure centralized database for motor insurance policies and claims. Companies must sign a Service Level Agreement with the CDC within 60 days and submit complete, accurate policy data. This information may be shared with federal and provincial authorities for verification under strict confidentiality rules. SECP says the move will boost enforcement of mandatory motor third-party insurance and support broader digital transformation in the insurance sector.

Santander Explores Buying Aegon’s Life Insurance Partnership in Spain

8 Dec 2025

Santander is considering acquiring Aegon’s stake in their joint life insurance venture in Spain, a business valued at over €600 million. The bank is waiting for the European Central Bank’s assessment of the capital impact this deal could have on its insurance operations. This move would represent a significant expansion of Santander’s insurance activities in Spain. The acquisition aims to give the bank full control over the life insurance partnership and strengthen its presence in the Spanish insurance market. Financial sources indicate the discussions are still in an exploratory phase.

Facilitating the purchase of insurance in Iran with Bime Bazaar

7 Dec 2025

In Iran, online insurance platforms like Bimebazar are transforming how people purchase insurance by offering transparency, easy price comparisons, and quick access to multiple providers. Bimebazar simplifies the process, allowing users to compare coverage, policy terms, and prices from different insurers, complete payments securely online, and receive verified digital policies. The platform also provides professional support, installment payment options, and a user-friendly interface, making insurance accessible even for first-time buyers. By reducing intermediaries and building trust through clear information, Bimebazar has helped shift insurance from a time-consuming obligation to a convenient and informed choice. Overall, digital tools are making insurance purchases faster, more transparent, and more confident for Iranian consumers.

Daniel Von Der Thusen Highlights the Importance of SOAPEX Insurance and the Rise in Home Insurance Policies

6 Dec 2025

Daniel Von Der Thusen of Von Der Thusen Insurance discussed the growing demand for insurance, particularly ahead of holidays and increased cross-border travel. He emphasized the mandatory SOAPEX insurance in Chile, which covers personal accidents for all passengers in vehicles with foreign plates, with policies available from seven to sixty days starting at around 30,000 pesos for a week. Demand for home insurance has also surged, driven by recent fires in Río Grande, Ushuaia, and Tolhuin, including coverage for lightweight wooden houses. Policies can cover fire, theft, water damage, appliances, and glass, with special promotions currently offering a 25% discount for the first three months. Von Der Thusen encouraged the community to secure their assets through insurance, especially during periods when homes may be unattended.

From Car Tax to Vehicle Inspection: Changes Coming for Drivers in 2026

6 Dec 2025

In 2026, drivers in Germany will face several changes affecting vehicle inspections, car tax, and licensing. The annual vehicle inspection (HU) sticker will change color to blue, and certain older drivers must exchange their licenses for the new EU format by January 19, 2026. Car taxes will now require a single annual payment, while the CO₂ tax will raise fuel costs slightly. Almost six million vehicle owners may see higher car insurance premiums, although some will benefit from lower rates. New requirements for digital emergency call systems in new cars and updates to e‑vehicle incentives and the commuter allowance also take effect next year.

India: Government plans 10% hike in third-party motor insurance premiums

5 Dec 2025

Rising claim costs and growing financial pressure have brought third-party motor insurance into sharp focus. According to recent reports, the government is considering a roughly 10 % increase in mandatory third-party premiums, with larger hikes possible for high-risk vehicle categories. If approved, this would raise the liability portion of car insurance — though total premiums will still depend on other coverage elements like own-damage. The increase reflects surging payouts from injury claims, higher repair costs, and heavier losses in certain segments. Drivers are advised to review their policy structure and prepare for potentially higher renewal costs.

India: Compact cars and SUVs drive three-fourth of motor insurance claims, EVs costliest to repair: Report

4 Dec 2025

Compact cars and SUVs account for about three‑quarters of all motor‑insurance claims in India, with compact cars alone making up 44 % of claims and SUVs contributing another 32 %. Repairs for SUVs tend to be more expensive — on average around ₹29,032 per claim — while compact‑car repairs average about ₹21,084. Although electric vehicles (EVs) represent only around 1 % of claims, they incur the highest average repair cost at about ₹39,021 per claim, largely due to costly batteries and electronics.

New Research Looks at Consumer Resistance Towards Telematics

4 Dec 2025

New research from Consumer Intelligence suggests insurers are undermining the future of connected insurance by effectively forcing young drivers into telematics with sky-high traditional premiums—and then failing to build trust once they’re on board. The study shows 17–19-year-olds face a median £2,172 cost difference, leaving 83% with telematics as their only realistic option, but adoption collapses after age 25 as drivers abandon the tech. Consumer Intelligence argues this “forced start” turns potential long-term users into lifelong sceptics. Their research also highlights that drivers want recognition, personalisation, and control—needs insurers routinely overlook. The firm says reframing telematics as a path to “trusted driver” status rather than surveillance could dramatically boost voluntary uptake and protect the future of connected insurance.

AXA Insurance Complaints and Reviews 2025

4 Dec 2025

AXA, a major French insurer operating in Mexico, offers a variety of policies including auto, health, travel, dental, and life insurance. Customer reviews are mixed: positive feedback highlights fast and efficient service, especially for medical claims, while negative comments often focus on delays in auto repairs, claim processing, and customer service issues. According to Condusef, AXA received an overall product rating of 8.71 in 2025, with 2,877 claims reported and no sanctions. Travel and dental insurance policies generally receive high satisfaction scores, although complaints exist regarding reimbursements and copay costs. Policyholders can submit complaints through AXA’s online portal, by email, phone, or local offices, and are encouraged to compare policies across providers to choose the best coverage.