Finance
Electric Car Insurance in India: Is It Different From Regular Car Insurance?
With the rising demand for eco-friendly alternatives, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular among Indian car buyers. Whether it’s the promise of a cleaner environment or government incentives, EVs have carved out a promising space on Indian roads. However, a common question that arises with the rise of EVs is about car insurance, specifically, how electric car insurance differs from regular car insurance.
Suppose you’re planning to make the switch or have recently bought a new electric vehicle. In that case, it’s essential to understand how new car insurance for EVs works, what it covers, and how you can buy car insurance online that is suited to your electric 4-wheeler.
What is Electric Car Insurance?
Electric car insurance in India provides financial protection to EV owners against damages, theft, third-party liabilities, and personal accidents. It works similarly to regular 4 wheeler insurance but also considers certain unique aspects of electric vehicles, such as the battery, charging infrastructure, and fewer moving parts.
There are two types of electric car insurance in India:
- Third-Party Insurance is mandatory as per Indian law. It covers damage to third parties (person or property) but not your vehicle.
Comprehensive Insurance offers extensive protection, including own damage (OD), third-party liabilities, theft, natural calamities, fire, and more.
How Is Electric Car Insurance Different from Regular Car Insurance?
While the structure of the policy remains similar, there are several ways in which electric car insurance differs from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) car insurance:
1. Premium Calculation
Premiums for EVs are typically lower than for ICE vehicles. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has mandated discounts on third-party premiums for electric cars to encourage their adoption. However, the comprehensive premium may be higher due to the expensive battery system, which is one of the costliest components to replace.
2. Coverage for the Battery
Unlike petrol or diesel cars, EVs rely heavily on their battery system. The insurance policy for an electric vehicle must include coverage for battery-related issues. Bajaj Allianz, for instance, offers policies that specifically include protection for the battery in addition to standard coverages.
3. Charging Equipment
Some online vehicle insurance providers are beginning to offer optional add-ons for covering EV charging cables and domestic charging stations, something not needed in regular car insurance.
4. Depreciation and Repairs
The repair and replacement costs for electric cars, especially for the battery and electronic components, are generally higher than those of traditional vehicles. Hence, having zero-depreciation add-ons or consumables cover becomes even more critical in online insurance for EVs.
5. Fewer Moving Parts = Lower Risk
EVs have fewer moving mechanical parts compared to ICE cars. This lowers the probability of some types of breakdowns, making them more durable in some ways. Over time, this could mean fewer claims, potentially leading to lower premiums in the future.
Why Buy Car Insurance Online for Electric Vehicles?
Digitisation has made it easier to buy car insurance online, compare policies, and access documents instantly. Opting for online insurance is not only quicker but also more transparent. You can easily compare features, premiums, and add-ons for plans explicitly tailored for EVs.
Insurers like Bajaj Allianz allow you to compare policies online, customise add-ons, and complete the entire purchase or renewal process in minutes. Additionally, their app and website support online vehicle insurance claims processing, policy tracking, and real-time support, making it a hassle-free experience for electric car owners.
Key Features to Look for in an Electric Car Insurance Policy
- Comprehensive Coverage: Always opt for a policy that covers own damage, third-party liabilities, theft, fire, floods, and man-made disasters.
- Battery Protection: Since the battery is central to your EV’s function and one of its most expensive parts, ensure your policy covers battery replacement and damage.
- Charging Station Coverage: Look for policies that provide protection for damage to or theft of home charging units.
- Roadside Assistance: Breakdown assistance is especially critical for EVs, considering range limitations and the lack of widespread charging infrastructure.
- Add-Ons: Choose suitable add-ons like zero depreciation, engine and gearbox protection (if applicable), key replacement, and more.
Premium Rates for Electric Car Insurance in India
The IRDAI has introduced lower premium rates for electric cars to promote green mobility. While these discounts apply to the third-party component, the overall premium for comprehensive insurance depends on:
- Cost of the EV
- Battery capacity (measured in kWh)
- Age and model of the car
- Add-ons and policy term
- City of registration
For example, the third-party premium for a private electric car not exceeding 30 kW is lower than that for its petrol or diesel counterpart.
Bajaj Allianz Electric Car Insurance
Bajaj Allianz is one of India’s top insurance providers, offering tailored solutions for electric cars. Their new car insurance plans are designed to accommodate the unique requirements of EVs. Key highlights include:
- Easy online policy issuance and renewal
- Battery and electrical components coverage
- 24/7 customer service and roadside assistance
- Customisable add-ons and affordable premiums
- App-based claims tracking and policy management
The Bajaj Allianz mobile app also helps users access their policy documents, request towing services, or register claims conveniently, making it a go-to option for many who want to buy car insurance online.
Tips to Buy the Right Electric Car Insurance
- Compare multiple insurers using aggregators or insurance portals.
- Use car insurance online check tools to verify the insurer’s coverage for EVs.
- Read policy wordings carefully to ensure battery and charging accessories are covered.
- Choose annual or long-term plans based on usage and savings on premiums.
- Ensure NCB (No Claim Bonus) is preserved at renewal for additional savings.
Conclusion
Electric car insurance in India is not fundamentally different from regular car insurance, but it does involve additional considerations unique to EV technology. From specialised coverage for batteries to optional protection for charging stations, the scope of coverage has evolved with the vehicle’s mechanics.
As the Indian automobile market shifts towards electric mobility, it’s crucial to pick the right 4 wheeler insurance policy that understands and addresses these differences. Reputed providers like Bajaj Allianz have already tailored their offerings for electric car owners, with seamless options to buy car insurance online.
Whether you’re purchasing your first EV or renewing your online vehicle insurance, ensure that the policy provides holistic coverage, matches your usage pattern, and is equipped for the future of mobility.