UK
Car Cloning is On The Rise Says Quotezone
Quotezone warns of a sharp rise in car cloning, with incidents up 64% in London, urging motorists to stay vigilant. Car cloning involves copying or stealing a vehicle’s registration to commit fraud, leading to fines and legal issues for innocent drivers. Victims may receive penalties for offences they didn't commit or even unknowingly buy cloned cars, losing both the vehicle and their money. To reduce risk, drivers should avoid posting license plates online, park in garages, and verify VINs when purchasing used cars. Running checks through the DVLA can help detect cloned vehicles. If cloning is suspected, it's vital to notify the police, DVLA, and your insurer immediately.
UK Motor insurers set for losses after just breaking even in 2025, says EY
UK motor insurers are expected to break even in 2025 but fall into losses by 2026, according to EY analysts. Rising claims inflation and falling premiums—driven by intense market competition—are expected to push the net combined ratio from 100% in 2025 to 107% in 2026, indicating underwriting losses. Premiums are forecast to decline by 6% in 2025 before rising 5% the following year, offering only minimal savings for drivers. This comes after a 14% surge in premiums in 2023 to offset higher repair costs. EY warns that despite recent profitability, insurers face mounting challenges from economic, regulatory, and industry changes. Consolidation in the sector is also underway, with major deals like Aviva’s planned acquisition of Direct Line.
Germany
Fueling: Petrol and diesel prices rise sharply
Despite a significant drop in Brent crude oil prices (down over 10% to around $67 per barrel) and a stronger Euro, German fuel prices have increased. According to the ADAC, diesel jumped by 5.4 cents to an average of €1.643 per liter, while Super E10 rose by 2 cents to €1.712 per liter. The ADAC believes current prices, especially for diesel, are too high given the reduced oil costs. They expect the lower oil prices and stronger Euro to soon reflect at the pumps, leading to lower fuel costs for consumers.
DEVK results 2024: Best new business in almost 140 years
DEVK Group announced exceptional financial results for 2024, marking its best new business performance in nearly 140 years. Led by CEO Gottfried Rüßmann, in his final balance sheet presentation, the company reported a 12.4% increase in premium income to €5.4 billion, making it one of Germany's fastest-growing insurance groups. New business premiums surged by 24.1% to €1.1 billion, driven by a highly successful motor insurance renewal period and an expanded sales team. DEVK is optimistic about 2025, forecasting a 5% premium growth and a significantly improved net profit, with reinsurance and property/casualty insurance as key drivers. The company is also preparing for a leadership transition and its 140th anniversary in 2026.
Portugal
Authority states insurance is not needed for scooters
Portugal’s road safety authority, ANSR, has clarified that electric scooters, segways, and hoverboards are not currently required to have civil liability insurance to circulate on public roads. This comes after the PSP police announced plans to inspect insurance for such vehicles, citing a new decree-law aligned with EU motor insurance rules. ANSR explained the law applies only to motor vehicles exceeding certain speed and weight thresholds, and excludes those classified as bicycle-equivalents. Devices with motors over 0.25 kW or speeds above 25 km/h are not yet legally allowed on public roads, pending further regulation. PSP said it will follow ANSR’s guidance but will seek further clarification.
India
Your vehicle insurance is likely to go up. Know by how much
Vehicle owners in India may face an 18–25% hike in third-party motor insurance premiums for FY 2025–26, as proposed by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). This would be the first major increase in four years, aimed at addressing rising claim costs and inflation. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is currently reviewing the proposal, with a final decision expected soon. Insurers argue the hike is necessary to sustain operations, citing increased claim ratios and higher accident compensation payouts. Premiums for small and mid-sized cars could rise by Rs 400–600. The regulator also aims to improve coverage in rural areas and for commercial vehicles.
