Global
AND-E advances expertise in autonomous vehicle insurance
Aioi Nissay Dowa Europe (AND-E) partnered with Oxa and Apollo to provide tailored insurance for the Sunderland Advanced Mobility Shuttle (SAMS) project, testing autonomous passenger transport in a real-world setting. The initiative offered valuable insights into the unique risks of self-driving vehicles and reinforced AND-E’s leadership in innovative mobility insurance. Building on their earlier collaborations, including Europe’s first zero-occupancy autonomous EV deployment, AND-E is shaping future-ready insurance solutions. The project marks a key step toward safer, greener transport as autonomous technology gains momentum.
India
Bajaj Allianz and ICICI Lombard are in early discussions with Tesla to become its preferred insurance partners in India, according to sources cited by NDTV Profit. While talks are ongoing, no final agreements have been made yet. The interest from major insurers highlights the growing competition to support Tesla’s entry into the Indian market.
Malaysia
Zurich Malaysia launches AI assistant for agent support via WhatsApp
Zurich Malaysia has launched “Z Buddy,” an AI-powered virtual assistant available 24/7 via WhatsApp to support its insurance and takaful agents. The tool helps reduce turnaround time by handling routine inquiries on travel, motor insurance, claims, and product details. As part of Zurich’s digital transformation, Z Buddy aims to improve efficiency by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing data accuracy. Future updates will enable it to provide motor insurance quotes and respond to more complex customer queries.
UK
Car finance: Drivers using claims firms could face 36% add-on charge on compensation payouts
Millions of UK drivers may be eligible for compensation due to car finance mis-selling involving hidden commissions, with a Supreme Court ruling expected soon. The FCA warns consumers against using claims management companies, which can charge up to 36% in fees, and recommends waiting for details of a potential industry-wide compensation scheme. Those who used finance before January 2021, especially under discretionary commission arrangements (DCAs), are most likely affected. Consumers can file complaints directly for free or use tools from MoneySavingExpert to check eligibility. The FCA aims to ensure any future scheme is simple and doesn't require legal assistance.
Allianz becomes Volkswagen Financial Services’ new motor insurance provider
Allianz UK has been appointed as the official motor insurance provider for Volkswagen Financial Services (VWFS) UK in a five-year partnership launched on 9 July 2025. The agreement covers all Volkswagen Group passenger car brands in the UK and includes offerings such as Essentials and Plus insurance tiers and complimentary five-day driveaway coverage. Allianz aims to deliver flexible, high-quality insurance products, while VWFS UK looks to enhance the customer experience by integrating insurance with vehicle financing and ownership. Customers will benefit from a user-friendly portal and no administration fees for policy changes.
Germany
Motor insurers could return to profitability in 2025
After years of losses, German motor insurers are expected to return to profitability in 2025, largely due to significant premium increases. The GDV projects a 14% rise in premiums this year, with a combined ratio of 97%, signaling a potential underwriting profit. From 2021 to 2024, rising repair and parts costs outpaced income, pushing the ratio above 100%. Insurers began raising premiums to cover growing expenses, though competition initially limited the hikes.
