Electric Car Insurance

It can be, because batteries, sensors and specialist labour can make repairs dearer. The price also depends on the drivers, the model, where it is kept and the claims history, so compare quotes.

Many policies cover damage to an owned battery after an insured event, such as an accident or fire. Gradual loss of range or capacity is usually excluded, so check the wording.

The leasing company’s terms can decide who insures the battery. Tell the insurer the battery is leased, and check that the lease and the policy fit together.

Some policies cover loss, theft or damage to charging cables, often with conditions such as keeping them secure. Check the limit and any excess before you rely on it.

A wall box fixed to your home can be covered by home insurance, car insurance or neither. Check both policies so the charger is not left out.

Running out of charge is usually a breakdown matter rather than an insurance claim. Some breakdown policies recover the car to the nearest charger or to your home.

High-voltage repairs need trained technicians. Many insurers use approved repairers who can work on electric cars safely, and some policies require it for the claim to be paid in full.

Yes. Plug-in and self-charging hybrids are insured like other cars, with the battery and engine both taken into account. Tell the insurer the exact model.

Yes. Electric cars are placed in insurance groups like any car, based on repair costs, parts, performance and security. The group feeds the price, alongside the drivers and where the car is kept.

Not always. Many policies offer a courtesy car while yours is repaired, but it may be a small petrol car. Check the policy if you need an electric replacement.

Insurers ask where the car is kept overnight, which is often where it charges. A driveway or garage can help the terms compared with street parking.

Comprehensive covers damage to your car, which can include an owned battery, after an insured event. Wear and gradual capacity loss are usually excluded, so read the battery section.

Often, yes, though imported models can have less familiar parts and repair routes. Tell the insurer the car is imported and give the exact model.

Theft is covered on third party, fire and theft and comprehensive cover, subject to security conditions such as keeping keys safe and the car locked when left.

Look beyond the price to the battery cover, charging cable terms, recovery, courtesy car, the total excess and whether approved repairers are required for high-voltage work.