Electric driving and your insurance

As a fixed part of the car, the battery falls under the own-damage cover for collision, fire or theft. What is not covered is loss of capacity through normal use and ageing. That is wear and falls under the factory warranty. If the battery is leased separately from the manufacturer, there is a third-party owner. Have it recorded in writing in advance how that is dealt with in the policy.

That varies a great deal by model and insurer. Electric cars often have a higher list price and greater weight and power, which pushes the premium up. Against that, some insurers give a discount for zero-emission vehicles. What remains decisive is the value of the vehicle, your no-claims years and your annual mileage. A comparison based on your own details gives the answer.

Not automatically. Many breakdown covers exclude being stranded through lack of fuel, and a flat battery is often treated the same way. Insurers that focus on electric driving increasingly do include this, sometimes with a maximum number of call-outs per year. Read the wording in the conditions and, if in doubt, ask whether running out of charge is expressly included.

Fire is the core cover of car, buildings and home contents insurance alike, so damage to the house and the car is covered in principle. What matters is that the charging equipment was installed soundly by a recognised installer, and that you reported it. If the cause lies in faulty installation, that is a matter between you and the installer and the insurer may seek recovery.