Electric car insurance covers: costs and features
Electric mobility has radically transformed the automotive industry, bringing significant changes to the world of insurance as well. Insuring an electric or hybrid vehicle requires different attentions than a traditional car, as advanced technological components and specific modes of use require dedicated protections.
Although the basic insurance categories remain unchanged, the ancillary coverages have evolved to adapt to the unique needs of electric vehicles, offering specific coverages for batteries, charging systems and electronic components.
The debate on the cost of electric vehicle policies presents conflicting data that deserve in-depth analysis. According to Segugio.it's Insurance Observatory covering the first quarter of 2025, the average cost of an auto liability policy for an electric vehicle is around 453 euros per year, which is 6.5 percent lower than for gasoline or diesel cars, which cost an average of 484 euros.
However, other studies show that some insurance companies have increased premiums in 2025, with increases related to factors specific to electric technology. The lithium-ion battery accounts for about 40 percent of the total value of the vehicle, and its eventual replacement incurs high costs that companies must consider in their risk calculations.
Factors affecting the insurance premium for an electric vehicle include the high cost of repairing technological components, the need for skilled labor at certified workshops, and the less availability of consolidated claims statistics. On the other hand, some insurers apply discounts of up to 10-15% for zero-emission vehicles.
An appropriate policy for electric cars must necessarily include ancillary guarantees that go beyond the traditional compulsory liability, protecting the distinctive elements of these vehicles.
Battery coverage is the most critical element of an electric vehicle insurance policy. This coverage must cover both damage resulting from road accidents and damage caused by external events such as power surges, short circuits or fire. The most comprehensive policies, guarantee reimbursement of up to 20,000 euros for total battery damage, protecting the vehicle's most significant investment.
Some companies also offer a value-as-new battery guarantee for the first few years of the vehicle's life, avoiding depreciation in the event of a necessary replacement after a no-fault accident. Considering that the battery is the most expensive component of the electric car, this coverage becomes an absolute priority.
Dedicated roadside assistance for electric vehicles differs substantially from traditionalroadside assistance. The policy must provide for immediate intervention in the event of a fully discharged battery, with two operational options: sending a rescue vehicle equipped with mobile rapid charging to provide enough power to reach the nearest charging station, or transporting the vehicle by tow truck to the nearest charging station.
Coverage must activate from kilometer zero, with no territorial deductibles, considering that charge depletion can occur even in the immediate vicinity of the home. This service is a key distinguishing feature from traditional vehicle policies.
Charging systems represent external components with high economic value and are particularly vulnerable. A comprehensive policy can include protection against theft or damage to the portable charging cable (average value €300-800), coverage of the home wallbox against theft, vandalism, natural events, and accidental damage, and protection of charging accessories such as specific adapters and connectors.
More advanced policies also extend coverage to cyber damage, protecting the vehicle's operating system from cyber attacks that could compromise charging efficiency or data security. This is an emerging threat that more advanced insurers are beginning to consider in their offerings.
Given the technological complexity of electric vehicles, it is essential that the policy provides for repairs at body shops certified by the manufacturer or specializing in electric technology. This ensures that genuine parts and skilled labor are used, preserving the performance and safety of the vehicle.
Some insurance companies offer a value-as-new guarantee for the first 12 to 24 months, settling the total loss at 100 percent without applying time depreciation, a significant advantage considering the high value of EVs.
To optimize the cost of the policy while maintaining adequate coverage, it is advisable to compare offers from several companies using specialized comparators, check for discounts for zero-emission vehicles (up to 15 percent less on the premium), consider limited driving or black box formulas if you drive few kilometers per year, and group several policies (home, life, auto) with the same insurer to obtain premium reductions.
Some companies also reward eco-driving monitored through apps or telematics devices, offering additional discounts to those who adopt a responsible driving style. It is also worth mentioning that electric vehicles benefit from car tax exemption for 5 years or indefinitely in several Italian regions, partially offsetting any higher insurance costs.
In conclusion, insurance for electric vehicles is evolving rapidly to adapt to the technological specificities of these vehicles. Carefully checking ancillary coverages, particularly those related to battery and charging systems, is essential to adequately protect your investment in sustainable mobility.
Does electric car insurance cost more than traditional cars?
According to 2025 data, liability policies for electric vehicles in Italy cost on average 6.5 percent less than gasoline or diesel cars, with an average premium of 453 euros per year. However, the cost varies depending on the company, the vehicle model and the ancillary coverages chosen.
What does the electric car battery warranty cover?
Specific battery coverage protects against damage from road accidents, power surges, short circuits and fires. The most comprehensive policies provide reimbursements of up to 20,000 euros for total damage and a replacement value guarantee for the first few years.
Is low battery roadside assistance included in the mandatory liability?
No, low battery assistance is an optional ancillary coverage that must be added to the basic policy. It includes the dispatch of emergency vehicles with mobile charging or towing to the nearest battery station, active from mileage zero.
Are the charging cable and home wallbox also covered?
Only if you add specific coverage to the policy. This guarantee protects against theft, damage and vandalism of the charging cable, accessories and home charging station, with reimbursements of up to 500 euros.
Do repairs have to be carried out at specific body shops?
Many electric vehicle policies require repairs to be carried out at body shops certified by the manufacturer or specializing in electrical technology, to ensure qualified interventions and the use of original spare parts.
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Founded in Turin, Italy in 2018, Powy is at the center of the transition to more sustainable mobility, offering an innovative charging infrastructure that uses only 100 percent renewable energy.
Powy 's network includes quick, fast, and ultra-fast charging solutions strategically placed in public and private parking lots, supermarkets, shopping malls, and transportation hubs to ensure maximum convenience and accessibility for EV drivers. Each station is equipped with advanced technologies to provide a reliable and efficient charging experience.
Learn more: wpowy.energy