Auto Insurance Developments: From Telematics to AI-Driven Policies

Auto Insurance Developments: From Telematics to AI-Driven Policies

Motor Insurance Market Outlook to 2034: Telematics, AI and Connected Cars Drive Growth

18 February 2026

The global motor insurance market, valued at $976.1 billion in 2025, is projected to reach $1.75 trillion by 2034, driven by rising vehicle ownership, mandatory coverage laws, and the rapid adoption of telematics and digital platforms. Connected vehicles and usage-based insurance models are enabling real-time data analysis, more accurate risk pricing, improved fraud detection, and personalised premiums. Insurers are accelerating investments in AI-powered underwriting, embedded insurance partnerships, and mobile-first distribution to meet evolving consumer expectations. At the same time, the growth of electric vehicles is prompting new policy innovations as carriers adapt to changing repair costs and risk profiles

IFED Busts London Spoof Vehicle Insurance Scam

18 February 2026

The Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department, together with the Metropolitan Police, arrested five people in London for creating and selling fake vehicle insurance apps used by thousands of drivers to deceive police during traffic stops. A former Metropolitan Police officer is believed to be a key figure in the scheme. The apps mimicked genuine insurance and suppliers now face criminal charges, while users risk prosecution and vehicle seizure. Authorities described the operation as linked to organised crime and emphasized ongoing efforts to dismantle the network and protect road safety.

Talanx Takes Full Control of Warta and TU Europa in Poland

18 February 2026

Talanx has acquired full ownership of Polish insurers Warta and TU Europa, buying Meiji Yasuda’s remaining 24.3% in Warta and nearly 50% in TU Europa. The share transfer concluded on February 16, 2026, finalizing a partnership that began in 2010. Warta generated €2.7bn in revenue in 2024 with 3,000 employees, while TU Europa reported €168m with 350 staff. The acquisition consolidates Talanx’s Polish operations under its Retail International division, with Meiji Yasuda continuing its business in other overseas markets.

Kia Partners With Wrisk to Launch Flexible Car Insurance

18 February 2026

Kia UK has teamed up with Wrisk to offer new and used Kia owners a flexible, digital-first car insurance experience, including monthly rolling subscription policies with no penalties or fees. The partnership also simplifies five-day complimentary Kia Driveaway Insurance and enhances Accident Aftercare, directing repairs to Kia-approved bodyshops for continuity and convenience. Customers can manage policies online, with guaranteed pricing for 12 months if no changes are made. Kia and Wrisk aim to provide greater transparency, flexibility, and peace of mind for drivers throughout their vehicle ownership.

Trawick International Launches Flexible Motor Insurance for UK Drivers

18 February 2026

Trawick International has introduced Trawick Motor in the UK, a flexible and customer-focused insurance solution for everyday motorists, expatriates, and specialist vehicle owners. The policy emphasizes simplicity, transparency, and tailored coverage, including short-term options for seasonal or shared vehicles. Customers can access specialist support and clear, plain-English terms, with competitive pricing. Backed by Greenlight Insurance Services and Lloyd’s market access, Trawick Motor combines international experience with UK-specific solutions.

London Police Arrest Five in Fake Motor Insurance App Investigation

17 February 2026

A coordinated operation by City of London Police, the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department, and the Metropolitan Police led to five arrests linked to fraudulent motor insurance apps allegedly used by tens of thousands of UK drivers. The network is accused of creating spoof applications and websites that mimicked legitimate insurers, allowing motorists to display fake insurance certificates during roadside checks. Authorities seized databases and shut down multiple domains as part of a broader national crackdown on digitally enabled insurance fraud. Suspected users could face prosecution for driving uninsured, while suppliers may face serious criminal charges. Police urged motorists to buy cover only from authorised insurers and report suspected fraud through official channels.

Expensive Car Insurance: Why Drivers Keep Paying More

16 February 2026

Car insurance costs in Germany have risen sharply in recent years, largely driven by soaring repair and replacement part prices rather than inflation or accident frequency. Automakers’ quasi-monopoly on original parts, protected by design rights, limits competition and keeps prices high. Legal reforms are underway, but meaningful price relief for drivers may not appear until the 2040s. For now, motorists can manage costs by switching insurers, choosing alternative workshops, or reducing risk through careful driving.

Can Real-Time Car Insurance Pricing Become Reality?

16 February 2026

Volkswagen (Anhui) Digital Sales and Services, Cardif Airstar Insurance, and Cheche Group have partnered to develop digital insurance solutions for Volkswagen electric vehicle owners in China, including intelligent real-time pricing models. The system uses driving behaviour data—such as acceleration, braking, steering patterns, and road conditions—combined with claims data to create personalised risk profiles and adjust premiums under a “better driving, better pricing” approach. Powered by AI, the model continuously learns by feeding real-time claims information back into the pricing engine to refine risk assessment. The collaboration aims to build a fully integrated digital insurance ecosystem across the EV ownership lifecycle and expand into intelligent-driving insurance.

25,000 Drivers Caught Without Insurance in Ireland

16 February 2026

New figures show that gardaí seized 19,673 vehicles for driving without insurance in 2025, bringing the two-year total to 38,546 since the launch of the Irish Motor Insurance Database (IMID). Using automatic number plate recognition technology, officers can now verify insurance details instantly, leading to more than 51,000 charges and summons issued over the same period. By the end of 2025, the database included nearly 4.6 million driver numbers and 3.65 million vehicles. However, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland warned that thousands of fleet vehicles remain missing from the National Fleet Database, with non-compliant owners facing fines of up to €500 per vehicle.

Odisha Sets Up SIT to Investigate Fake Motor Insurance Claims

16 February 2026

The Odisha government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe fraudulent motor insurance claims, the Supreme Court of India was informed. So far, 104 suspicious claims have been identified, with 70 confirmed as fake, and four payouts already made. Five individuals, including an advocate, have been arrested in connection with the case. The SIT will continue investigating the network behind the fraud and recommend legal action against those involved.

Car Insurance in Madrid Costs €100 More Than in Extremadura

15 February 2026

In Spain, the cost of car insurance varies significantly by region, with Madrid averaging €436 per year—around €100 more than Extremadura, the cheapest region at €335. Prices are influenced by the mix of policy types, with all-risk coverage more common in Madrid, and factors like traffic density, accident rates, and driver profiles. Diesel cars remain the most insured, and SEAT is the top brand across the country. This data reflects actual 2025 policy purchases, providing a clear picture of regional insurance disparities.

Barclays Warns of AI-Driven De-Rating Risk for Motor Insurers, Flags Aviva as Most Exposed

14 February 2026

Barclays has cautioned that while artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles have not yet materially impacted motor insurer earnings, equity markets may begin pricing in long-term structural risks to a segment that represents up to 40% of global P&C premiums. The bank suggests insurers perceived as “AI losers” could face share price de-ratings of 5–25%, even without immediate earnings downgrades. Aviva was highlighted as particularly exposed, with around 23% of its profits coming from personal motor lines, especially in the competitive UK market. Barclays also flagged Allianz, Generali, Sampo, and Gjensidige as vulnerable to gradual structural pressure as AI platforms and autonomous technology reshape pricing, distribution, and long-term premium pools.

Admiral Group to Expand Commercial Motor Offering Through Flock Acquisition

13 February 2026

Admiral Group has agreed to acquire Flock, a digital commercial fleet insurer valued at £80 million, gaining access to its AI-driven telemetry platform that tracks real-time vehicle data and rewards safer driving. The acquisition strengthens Admiral’s commercial motor segment, integrating Flock’s technology, team, and scalable platform into its fleet insurance offering. Flock’s approach combines live driving insights with personalized safety guidance, aiming to reduce accidents and costs for fleet operators. The deal, expected to close in Q2 2026, positions Admiral to leverage data and technology to enhance service, risk management, and growth in the commercial motor market.

China Sees 34% Spike in EV Insurance Amid Modest Motor Market Growth

13 February 2026

New-energy vehicles (NEVs) drove growth in China’s motor insurance sector in 2025, with total premiums reaching CNY 940.9 billion ($136.4 billion), up 3% year-on-year. Claims also rose 4% to over CNY 620 billion. Despite this overall moderate growth in the motor insurance market, premiums for NEVs surged 34%, reflecting higher perceived risk and repair costs. The trend highlights the increasing influence of electric vehicles on insurance pricing in China.

Car Insurance Costs Soar in France in 2026

13 February 2026

Average car insurance premiums in France are rising 8% in 2026, reaching €751 per year, with the highest costs in Corsica and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Electric vehicles face particularly steep increases, averaging €818, due to expensive battery replacements. Regional differences and vehicle type significantly influence pricing, while extreme weather events also push premiums higher. Drivers can mitigate costs by comparing policies, choosing coverage suited to their vehicle’s age, and negotiating with insurers.

New Zealand Government Questions Need for Compulsory Car Insurance

12 February 2026

New Zealand officials are questioning whether mandatory third-party car insurance is necessary, noting that most drivers already have coverage through the ACC system for personal injuries. While property damage insurance remains optional, experts warn that making it compulsory could raise costs for existing policyholders and create unintended consequences. Transport and consumer affairs ministers indicate that no policy changes are currently planned, citing studies showing limited expected benefits. Industry observers emphasize that the current system already provides broad protection and that compulsory coverage may not significantly improve road safety or financial outcomes.

 

 

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