Ireland
Irish insurance holders ‘stuck in a rip-off cycle’ – Kathleen Funchion MEP
Irish MEP Kathleen Funchion has urged the EU to intervene in rising motor insurance costs, calling the situation a “rip-off cycle” for Irish policyholders. Speaking from Strasbourg, she highlighted that Irish drivers are paying nearly double the EU average—the highest in five years—despite no clear justification. Funchion criticised the Irish government’s inaction and called on Brussels to reintroduce measures against anti-competitive practices.
Germany
E-car subsidies 2025: CDU/CSU and SPD plan new purchase incentive
Germany’s new coalition agreement, signed on April 9, 2025, outlines several measures to revive electric mobility. These include tax incentives for electric company cars, extending EV tax exemptions until 2035, and introducing special depreciation options. The government also plans to reduce electricity costs by cutting taxes and grid fees, and will support charging infrastructure expansion and low-income households switching to clean mobility. While no new direct purchase subsidies were approved, the focus has shifted toward structural incentives and long-term industry support.
TÜV bombshell: These cars will be inspected by TÜV every year in the future
TÜV Süd is calling for annual vehicle inspections for cars over ten years old to improve road safety. Currently, vehicles in Germany undergo inspection every two years, but older used cars often show higher defect rates, especially if not regularly maintained. TÜV Süd CEO Jürgen Wolz suggests that more frequent checks would help identify safety issues earlier. The proposal follows statistics showing that nearly one-third of cars inspected in 2023 had defects.
India
No insurance claim for reckless driving, says SC: Read fine print carefully
The Supreme Court ruled that insurance companies are not required to pay compensation to families if the policyholder dies due to their own negligent or rash driving, affirming a Karnataka High Court decision. This highlights a significant gap in motor insurance coverage that many may not realize. Experts warn that insurers typically exclude claims involving violations like drunk driving, invalid licenses, or unauthorized vehicle use. The ruling is expected to lead to stricter fault-based claim assessments and more rigorous documentation requirements for accident claims. Families are urged to carefully review policy terms and ensure compliance to avoid disputes.
Italy
Vehicle tax 2026, what's really changing: All the latest news including payment, deadlines and exceptions
Starting January 1, 2026, Italy’s car tax system will change: payments must be made in one lump sum, ending the option for monthly or semi-annual installments. The reform applies only to newly registered vehicles from that date onward and ties the annual payment deadline to the month of first registration. While the tax calculation method remains unchanged—based on engine power and emissions class—rules for vehicles under administrative seizure will tighten, requiring them to pay tax regardless of use. The "super tax" on high-powered vehicles (over 185 kW) will also remain unchanged. Though aimed at simplification, the reform increases the financial burden for car owners.
UK
1 in 5 Drivers Are Taking Selfies on The Road
A new study by ALA Insurance found that 22% of UK drivers admit to filming themselves while driving, mainly for social media content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Younger drivers are the most likely offenders, with nearly half of under-35s engaging in this risky behaviour. Many are unaware that using a phone while driving is illegal and could lead to fines, licence points, or even voided insurance policies. ALA Insurance warns that distracted driving puts lives at risk and urges drivers to prioritise safety over social media engagement.
