EV Adoption and Fleet Challenges
DCL Broker Barometer Reveals Slow Transition to Battery Vans & Trucks
4 Aug 2025
Direct Commercial Limited (DCL) reports that the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) among commercial motor operators, particularly in the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) segment, remains slow due to challenges like limited vehicle availability, charging infrastructure, and high maintenance costs. Only 13% of brokers believe their clients are adapting well to EVs, while 44% report poor or no adaptation. Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) show more progress, now making up around 7% of new registrations, though they still pose financial and operational challenges. DCL emphasizes the need for tailored insurance solutions that reflect current market realities. As government sustainability mandates tighten, brokers will play a crucial role in guiding fleet clients through the transition.
EVs driving up motor insurance competition
4 Aug 2025
New research from Consumer Intelligence shows that the rise in electric vehicle (EV) adoption is intensifying competition in the motor insurance market. In the past year, 11 new EV-specific insurance products were launched on price comparison sites, compared to only four for petrol, diesel, or hybrid cars. These EV policies often include features like charging equipment protection and carbon offsetting. Despite higher claim costs, EV premiums have started to decline, with some falling by up to 18%. This shift comes as EV sales rose over 35% in early 2025, while petrol and diesel sales declined. Insurers are increasingly viewing EVs as mainstream, leading to more competitive pricing and wider coverage.
HUK Coburg: Private e-car purchases are increasing sharply
31 Jul 2025
Most electric cars in Germany have so far been bought by companies, with private buyers showing more hesitation. However, recent data from HUK Coburg’s “E-Barometer” reveals that private electric car purchases are rising again, reaching 5.5% of new car acquisitions in Q2 2025—up over a third from Q1. This increase follows a drop after the government ended the electric car subsidy in late 2023. Surveys also show growing acceptance of electric vehicles among the public, with 48% rating them positively, up from 37% earlier in the year. Younger people and men tend to be more favorable towards electric cars than older adults and women, while regional differences also exist across Germany.
Traders Can Often Struggle to Get MoT Done on Time
31 Jul 2025
Many tradespeople rely heavily on their vans, yet many neglect essential maintenance, risking safety, income, and legal compliance. A recent Tempcover survey found that 47% have forgotten their MOT before, with 5% driving without a valid certificate—an illegal act that can lead to fines and invalid insurance. Only 46% follow a regular servicing schedule, while others delay due to cost, time, or misconceptions about necessity. Breakdowns cause significant disruptions, with 36% experiencing breakdowns in two years and many losing work hours or paying high repair costs. Despite this, temporary business van insurance is underused, with 43% unaware of it, though it offers flexible short-term cover to keep tradespeople working during vehicle issues.
