• Travel with Confidence: Why Forces Mutual Travel Insurance Has You Covered

    Travel with Confidence: Why Forces Mutual Travel Insurance Has You Covered

    Whether you’re based in the UK or if you are deployed overseas and heading off on holiday, Forces Mutual Travel Insurance is here to give you peace of mind.

    Tailored for the Forces Community

    As a member of the armed forces or an affiliated organisation, your lifestyle is unique and so are your travel needs. Forces Mutual understands this. Forces Mutual travel insurance is designed for serving personnel and their families, offering flexible cover that travels with you.

    What’s Covered?

    Forces Mutual Travel Insurance insures:

    • Emergency medical expenses abroad – up to £5 million
    • Trip cancellation or curtailment – up to £4,000
    • Lost or stolen personal belongings – up to £2,000
    • Missed departures – up to £500
    • Personal liability – up to £2 million
    • Optional winter sports cover 

    All this, with the added reassurance of 24/7 medical assistance.

    What’s Not Covered?

    It’s important to note that the policy does not cover pre-existing medical conditions. You are not covered if you decide you no longer wish to travel, or for any claim related to an incident that you were aware of at the time you took out this insurance and which could lead to a claim. Other exclusions and restriction can be found in the IPID document here.

    Flexible Cover for Every Traveller

    Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, Forces Mutual offers cover options to suit your plans.

    Find out more

    Find out about Forces Mutual Travel Insurance here

    Or to get a quote today click here.

    Forces Mutual Travel Insurance is arranged by Motorplus Limited t/a Coplus and underwritten by Astrenska Insurance Limited.

    Sarah Blair

  • Protect What Matters Most: Choose the Right Kit Insurance with Forces Mutual

    Protect What Matters Most: Choose the Right Kit Insurance with Forces Mutual

    Whether you’re just starting your military journey or well into your service, protecting your belongings is essential. Forces Mutual understands the unique lifestyle of military personnel and offers two tailored insurance options to suit your needs: Kit Start Insurance and Kit & Personal Possession Insurance.

    Kit Start Insurance: Simple, Smart Protection for SLA Residents

    If you’re living in Single Living Accommodation (SLA), Kit Start Insurance is designed specifically for you. It’s a straightforward, affordable way to ensure your military-issued kit is protected from risks like theft, and accidental damage

    Why Choose Kit Start?

    Kit Start is the perfect entry-level insurance for those who want peace of mind without overcomplicating things.

    • Tailored for SLA residents
    • Covers military-issued kit up to £5,000 – including uniforms, equipment, and more.
    • Content cover – up to £5,000
    • Personal Liability cover – up to 250,000
    • Affordable premiums – ideal for those just beginning their service at £8.72 a month.
    • Quick and easy setup – get covered without the hassle.

    Kit & Personal Possession Insurance: Comprehensive Cover for Your Lifestyle

    For those who need broader protection, Kit & Personal Possession Insurance offers a more comprehensive solution. It also provides legal expenses cover up to £50,000. 

    Why Choose Kit & Personal Possession Insurance?

    • Covers both kit and personal possession and temporary issued kit – up to £40,000
    • Four levels of content cover available – £0, £10,000, £30,000 or £100,000
    • Personal Liability cover – up to £500,000
    • Worldwide protection – ideal for deployments.
    • Flexible cover levels – choose what suits your lifestyle and budget.

    This option is ideal for personnel who have moved beyond SLA or simply want more robust protection.

    Which One Is Right for You?

    • Kit Start Insurance. Find out more here. 
    • Kit & Personal Possession Insurance. Find out more here.

    Benefit limits, terms and exclusions apply for both Kit Start and Kit & Personal Possession Insurance, please refer to the IPID and policy documents here. 

    Both options are backed by Forces Mutual’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community with trusted, affordable insurance.

    Kit & Personal Possessions and Kit Start Insurance is arranged by Motorplus Limited t/a Coplus and underwritten by Collinson Insurance Limited (a trading name of Astrenska Insurance Limited).

    Kit & Personal Possessions Legal Expenses Cover is provided by ARAG plc who is authorised to administer this insurance on behalf of the insurer ARAG Legal Expenses Insurance Company Limited.

    Sarah Blair

  • Protect Your Car From Theft

    Protect Your Car From Theft

    This article was published on 18 August 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Car theft in the UK remains a real problem with over 61,000 vehicles were reported stolen in 2024. That’s around seven cars an hour, according to DVLA data obtained by What Car?  While this represents a modest 6% decrease from the previous year, the figures remain alarming.

    For members of the British Armed Forces and your families, your lifestyle often means parking in a mix of locations – on secure bases, at home, in public car parks, or even leaving vehicles behind during deployments. While military bases often offer a higher level of security, no location is completely risk-free. That’s why it’s important to take simple, effective steps to protect your vehicle wherever it’s parked.

    Keyless Cars: Modern Convenience, Modern Risk

    If your car has keyless entry, it’s worth knowing it can also be more vulnerable to theft – especially from relay attacks. Thieves can use devices to clone the signal from your key fob and drive off in seconds, without breaking a window or forcing entry.

    Here are some simple but effective steps, as recommended by Thatcham Research, to help protect keyless vehicles:

    • Update software: Check with your car dealer about any security updates.
    • Disable key fobs: Some key fobs can be switched off when not in use – ask your dealer how.
    • Use a signal-blocking pouch: Also known as a Faraday pouch, this can stop the signal being stolen.
    • Store keys safely: Keep them away from doors and windows – don’t leave them in easy-to-reach spots.
    • Be alert: Keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour, especially around car parks or your driveway.

    Everyday Tips to Prevent Car Theft

    Whether your car is keyless or not, there are everyday steps that can reduce your risk:

    • Always lock doors and close windows, even if stepping away for just a moment.
    • Never leave your car running unattended – not even on cold mornings.
    • Keep valuables out of sight or remove them from the vehicles.
    • Park in well-lit, secure areas when possible.
    • Use visible security devices like steering wheel locks or gear stick locks.
    • Consider a car alarm or tracking system – some may also reduce your insurance premium.

    Secure Your Driveway or Parking Space

    Even at home or on base, extra protection helps. Here’s how to make your vehicle less attractive to thieves:

    • Install a home CCTV system. Basic home systems are affordable and can deter opportunists.
    • Use motion-activated lights. Thieves prefer the dark – keep your space well-lit.
    • Be cautious with key storage. Avoid leaving keys in obvious places like hooks near the front door or in view when you’re out and about.

    Remember, the more layers of security you have, the less appealing your car is to thieves.

    Car Insurance that understands Military Life

    At Forces Mutual, we understand the demands of military life – frequent moves, deployments, or secure base living. That’s why Forces Mutual Car Insurance is designed with serving personnel and your families in mind – Cover comes with features you won’t typically find in standard policies. T&Cs apply.

    Learn more about Forces Mutual Car Insurance offering here or call 0151 363 5290 to speak with our friendly team.

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Tereza Macegova

    ,

  • 6 Ways to Save on Your Touring Caravan Insurance

    6 Ways to Save on Your Touring Caravan Insurance

    This article was published on 12 August 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    A touring caravan offers freedom, flexibility, and the chance to enjoy the great outdoors – but like any vehicle, it comes with costs. One of the most important (and often overlooked) is insurance.

    While it’s crucial to have cover in place to protect your caravan, there are several ways you can reduce your insurance premium without cutting corners on protection.

    What affects caravan insurance costs?

    Insurers each have their own methods for calculating premiums, but these are some of the most common factors they take into account:

    • Make, model, and age of the caravan – This influences how expensive it may be to repair or replace.
    • Security features – Factory-fitted and aftermarket devices like alarms, locks, and trackers all count.
    • Storage location – Caravans stored in secure facilities often benefit from lower premiums.
    • Your claims history – Previous claims can push your premium up.
    • Type of cover – More comprehensive cover usually means a higher price.
    • Excess amounts – A higher voluntary excess can help reduce what you pay annually.

    1. Upgrade your caravan’s security

    The more difficult your caravan is to steal, the less risk it poses to insurers – and the better chance you have of securing a discount. Consider fitting wheel clamps, hitchlocks, immobilisers, and tracking devices, and make sure to list them when applying for insurance.

    2. Adjust your voluntary excess

    If you’re willing to pay a bit more towards the cost of a claim, many insurers will offer a lower premium. Just make sure the total excess is realistic and affordable in case you need to make a claim.

    3. Choose a secure storage option

    Where your caravan is kept outside of holiday use matters. Storing it in a gated facility, secure compound, or garage will usually reduce your premium. If it stays on your driveway, consider installing CCTV or motion sensor lighting for added peace of mind.

    4. Be accurate with your valuation

    Avoid over-insuring your caravan. For market value cover, this should reflect the current resale value. For new or old, it should be based on the latest equivalent model. Overestimating can increase your premium unnecessarily.

    5. Go for a lower-value model

    If you’re in the market for a new caravan, a less expensive or lighter model will generally be cheaper to insure. These models are usually easier to repair and less of a target for thieves.

    6. Protect your no-claims discount

    Avoid small claims if the cost of repairs is less than your excess – it may be more economical in the long run to pay out of pocket and keep your no-claims bonus intact.

    Don’t sacrifice cover for cost

    Cutting your premium is great, but it’s essential that your caravan remains properly protected. Whether it’s for damage, theft, or towing-related issues, make sure your policy suits your needs.

    Ready to get started? Get your touring caravan insurance quote today.

    Caravan Insurance is provided by Compass Insurance who are a specialist provider of holiday caravan and residential park home insurance, with over 40 year’s experience, so they can help you find the right cover for you.

    Compass Insurance is part of the Bspoke Insurance Group Ltd, which also includes Forces Mutual, so you know you’re in safe hands.

    Sarah Blair

  • Smart Ways to Cut the Cost of Motoring

    Smart Ways to Cut the Cost of Motoring

    This article was published on 20 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Running a car in the UK isn’t cheap. According to NimbleFins, the average annual cost in 2025 is over £3,350. But with a few smart strategies, you could reduce your motoring expenses—without compromising safety or performance.

    Whether you’re stationed in the UK or preparing for deployment, here are some practical tips to help you save money on your vehicle.

    1. Save on Servicing

    Regular servicing keeps your car running smoothly and helps avoid costly repairs down the line. But you don’t have to pay over the odds:

    • Shop around for competitive servicing quotes.
    • Stick to the manufacturer’s service schedule to maintain performance and resale value.
    • Keep a full service history—this can boost your car’s value when it’s time to sell.

    2. Look After Your Tyres

    Tyres are vital for safety and fuel efficiency. Here’s how to extend their life:

    • Check tyre pressure regularly—incorrect pressure increases wear and fuel use.
    • Inspect tread depth and remove debris like stones.
    • Get your wheels aligned—misalignment can double tyre wear.

    Remember: UK law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Many experts recommend replacing tyres at 3mm for better grip and safety.

    3. Lighten the Load

    Carrying unnecessary weight—like kit bags, tools, or sports gear—can increase fuel consumption. Clear out your boot and remove roof racks or boxes when not in use to improve fuel economy.

    4. Drive Smarter, Save Fuel

    Your driving habits have a big impact on fuel efficiency. Try these techniques:

    • Accelerate and brake gently.
    • Maintain a steady speed—most cars are most efficient between 30–50 mph.
    • Avoid idling—use start-stop tech if your car has it.
    • Use air con and electrics sparingly—they increase fuel use.
    • Change gear early but avoid straining the engine.

    You can estimate your fuel usage using free online calculators like those at Fuel-Economy.co.uk.

    5. Choose a Car with Lower Emissions

    If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, consider one with low CO₂ emissions:

    Cars over £40,000 attract an additional annual charge of £425, unless they’re zero-emission and registered before April 2025.

    6. Prepare for Winter Driving

    Cold weather can be tough on vehicles. Get ahead of the season with these checks:

    • Lights – Clean and check all bulbs.
    • Screenwash – Use a winter-grade mix to prevent freezing.
    • Battery – Cold weather drains batteries faster—test or replace if needed.
    • De-icer and scraper – Keep them handy for frosty mornings.
    • Winter tyres – Optional in the UK, but useful if you’re driving in snow or abroad.

    7. Review Your Car Insurance

    If you’re not already insured with Forces Mutual, it might be time to switch:

    • Spread the cost monthly at no extra charge.
    • Switch anytime—we’ll cover cancellation fees up to £125 from your current insurer.
    • Tailored cover for armed forces personnel.

    Learn more about Forces Mutual Car Insurance here.

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Sarah Blair

  • Financial Protection for Armed Forces Personnel: Life Insurance & Critical Illness Cover

    Financial Protection for Armed Forces Personnel: Life Insurance & Critical Illness Cover

    This article was published on 16 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    You’ve dedicated your life to serving and protecting others. But have you considered how you can protect your own family’s financial future? Life insurance and critical illness cover ensures that you and your loved ones are safeguarded – both on and off duty.

    Why Life Insurance Matters

    While you may receive some protection for incidents that occur while on duty, accidents, illnesses, and unforeseen circumstances can happen at any time. Without a financial safety net, your family may struggle with everyday expenses, such as mortgage payments, childcare, and household bills.

    Life insurance provides a cash lump sum or income* in the unfortunate event of your passing. This payout can help ease financial burdens, ensuring that your family maintains stability even in difficult times.

    The Importance of Critical Illness Cover

    Serious health conditions can impact your ability to work, whether temporarily or permanently. Critical illness cover provides a cash lump sum or income* if you are diagnosed with one of the covered illnesses, offering financial support during treatment and recovery.

    Having the right cover means you can focus on your health without worrying about household expenses or lost income.

    Tailored Advice for Armed Forces Personnel

    We understand the unique challenges faced by members of the armed forces. That’s why we provide free advice from specialists who understand your needs. Our expert advisors will assess your situation and offer personal recommendations based on your requirements.

    We work with a select panel of insurance providers, ensuring you get access to policies that best suit your circumstances. While restrictions may apply if you are under orders to deploy within six months, we will guide you through your options.

    Take the Next Step

    Protect your family’s future today. Speak to our dedicated advisors to arrange a consultation and find the right life insurance or critical illness cover for you.

    Call us on 0151 363 5290 or 0044 (0)151 363 5920 (Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00)

    Find out more about Life Insurance and Critical Illness cover here.

    *T&Cs apply.

    Sarah Blair

  • How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Mortgage Approved: A Guide for UK Armed Forces Personnel

    How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Mortgage Approved: A Guide for UK Armed Forces Personnel

    This article was published on 6 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Applying for a mortgage can be a daunting process—especially for members of the Armed Forces who may face unique financial circumstances. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving to a new posting, or remortgaging, understanding what lenders look for can significantly improve your chances of getting approved.

    In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors that influence mortgage approval and share practical tips to help you prepare.

    What Do Mortgage Lenders Look For?

    Lenders assess a range of criteria when reviewing mortgage applications. These include:

    • Loan amount requested
    • Deposit size
    • Employment status and income
    • Credit history
    • Monthly outgoings
    • Existing debts

    When Should You Start Looking for a Mortgage?

    Buying a New Home

    Start early—ideally before you begin viewing properties. Speaking to a mortgage adviser in advance helps you:

    • Understand how much you can borrow
    • Identify any potential issues early
    • Strengthen your position with a mortgage agreement in principle

    Remortgaging

    Begin your search at least three months before your current deal ends. Switching lenders can take time, so give yourself enough room to explore your options.

    Common Reasons Mortgage Applications Are Declined

    Understanding why applications are rejected can help you avoid common pitfalls:

    • Poor credit history
    • Excessive credit applications
    • Not being on the electoral roll
    • High levels of debt
    • Insufficient or unstable income

    How to Boost Your Mortgage Approval Odds

    1. Get Your Finances in Shape

    Start reviewing your finances at least 12 months before applying. Lenders want to see responsible money management.

    • Reduce unnecessary spending
    • Avoid large, irregular transactions
    • Build up your savings

    2. Manage Your Credit Responsibly

    • Pay all bills and credit cards on time
    • Set up direct debits to avoid missed payments
    • Avoid payday loans, especially within 12 months of applying

    3. Check and Improve Your Credit Report

    Your credit report is a key part of the application process. Check your report with all three major agencies:

    • Equifax
    • Experian
    • TransUnion

    Look for errors, outdated financial links, or missed payments. Dispute any inaccuracies and update your information.

    4. Register to Vote

    Being on the electoral register helps lenders verify your identity and address. If you’re not registered, your application could be at risk.

    5. Avoid New Credit Applications

    Avoid applying for new credit (including mobile contracts or store cards) within six months of your mortgage application. Multiple credit checks can lower your score.

    6. Increase Your Deposit

    The lower your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, the better. Even a small increase in your deposit can improve your chances and potentially secure a better interest rate.

    7. Prepare Your Documents in Advance

    Having your paperwork ready can speed up the process. You may need:

    • Last 3 months’ payslips
    • Last 3 months’ bank statements
    • P60 tax form
    • Proof of deposit (e.g. savings account)
    • ID (passport)
    • Proof of address (utility or credit card bills)
    • Gift letter (if part of your deposit is a gift)

    For more information on the Forces Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service, provided by Grange Mortgages click here

    Sarah Blair

  • Could Now Be The Right Time To Move?

    Could Now Be The Right Time To Move?

    This article was published on 4 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    After a period of economic uncertainty, the UK housing market is showing signs of recovery. With more homes available, rising buyer confidence, and improved mortgage affordability, now could be an ideal time to consider a property move.

    UK Housing Market in 2025: Key Trends Driving the Recovery

    More Homes for Sale, More Buyers in the Market

    According to the Zoopla House Price Index (May 2025), the number of homes listed for sale has increased by 13% year-on-year. This surge in supply is giving buyers more choice and helping to breathe fresh life into the market.

    • Agreed sales are up 6% compared to last year,
    • Buyers are negotiating deals at around 3% below asking price
    • Sellers are showing more flexibility to close deals

    This is great news for Armed Forces personnel who may be relocating or looking to buy their first home.

    House Prices Are Rising—But at a Manageable Pace

    Nationally, house prices have grown by 1.6% over the past year, with the average UK property now valued at £268,250, according to Zoopla. This moderate growth keeps homes within reach for many buyers.

    Prices vary by region:

    • In Northern areas like Blackburn and Belfast there’s been around 5% price growth
    • Southern coastal areas, such as Bournemouth and Brighton have seen slight price declines,  likely due to increased listings
    • According to the Office for National Statistics, the average house price in West Northamptonshire reached £295,000 in March 2025, marking a 7.0% increase from March 2024. This growth aligns with the broader East Midlands region, which also saw a 7.0% rise during the same period.

    Mortgage Rates Are Falling, Making Homes More Affordable

    In May 2025, the Bank of England reduced the base rate to 4.25%, leading to lower mortgage rates across the board. According to Morningstar UK, the most competitive mortgages are now:

    • Two-year fixed-rate mortgages: From 3.75%
    • Five-year fixed-rate mortgages: From 3.83%
    • As noted in the Guardian, some lenders are also relaxing affordability criteria, allowing buyers to borrow more

    This is particularly beneficial for first-time buyers and second-steppers in the Armed Forces, who may be looking to move up the property ladder.

    What’s the Outlook for the Rest of 2025?

    Market analysts expect the positive momentum to continue:

    • Zoopla forecasts a 5% increase in completed sales
    • Average house prices are expected to rise by 2%
    • The Times reports that UK house sales are at their highest level since the post-lockdown boom

    This suggests that the current recovery is not just a short-term trend but part of a broader market rebound.

    Is Now the Right Time to Move?

    With more homes available, competitive mortgage rates, and steady price growth, the current market presents a unique opportunity for those looking to move.

    Daniel Mumford, Managing Director at Grange Mortgages, says:
    “With increased property listings, stable pricing, and improved mortgage affordability, there’s a unique window of opportunity for buyers and movers. The current market conditions are among the most favourable we’ve seen in recent years, making it an excellent time to consider your next property move.”

    For more information on the Forces Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service, provided by Grange Mortgages Click here

    Sarah Blair

  • Car & home insurance – how do you make sure you get the best value for your needs compared to the cost?

    Car & home insurance – how do you make sure you get the best value for your needs compared to the cost?

    This article was published on 2 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Price increases and rising inflation are putting a lot of pressure on household finances. Many people are actively reviewing their finances and cutting back or eradicating expenditure where possible to make savings.

    Payments and prices will come under the spotlight. But it’s not always a case of searching out the lowest cost, you need to consider your personal needs and the value you want your policy to provide.

    Take insurance premiums for example. Car insurance is a legal requirement in the UK, but home insurance isn’t. So, at the extreme, someone could risk not insuring their home to save outgoings. But what a risk! Damage to the house structure or loss of home contents could be incredibly expensive to redress.

    So, how could you manage the amount you pay for your insurance whilst making sure it is still adequate for your needs? Options to look at could include opting to pay a higher excess in the event of a claim, or not covering your home contents for accidental damage. When considering options like this you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs that might arise in the event of a claim. For example, consider if you could afford to pay the higher excess in the event of a claim, or how you would replace items subject to accidental damage if you decided not to take that level of cover out with your policy. 

    Some insurance policies may promote a lower headline cost, but either not include certain elements that you personally would find useful or need, or make you pay extra for elements that you want to make use of.

    Examples include:

    • You might want to consider a car insurance policy that provides a courtesy car. If as a result of a claim your car needs to go in for repairs you would need to make arrangements to remain mobile for the period that your car is being repaired.
    • You might want to consider a home or car insurance policy that doesn’t charge to make changes during the time you hold the policy with the insurer. Changes you may need to make during the year could include mileage changes, address changes, insured driver changes and provision of duplicate documents. If your job or occupation changes, you might need to change your home or car insurance cover, for instance, if you become self-employed and work from home. If your policy charges for amendments these can add costs to your original premium paid.
    • You may want to review what policy extras you actually need, being mindful that you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs arising if you decided to exclude policy add-ons.
    • Specialist Military car insurance policies may or may not include cover on or off base, or laid up cover, just in case you get called up for duty and need to lay up your car. If you are serving military personnel, you may want to make sure your policy covers you for this.

    So, it pays to look beyond the headline cost and get a policy that works for you and your specific needs.

    Reviewing your policy could make sure you have a policy that meets your individual needs and help reduce the chances of you being hit with any unexpected costs.

    If you are reviewing your insurance premium costs as part of your household finances review, you may be interested to know that you don’t need to wait until your renewal date to review and switch your insurance policy.

    Even if you took out an annual policy paid upfront as a lump sum, you may be able get a refund on some of your premiums and switch to a new insurer of your choice. However, some insurance companies may apply a cancellation charge for moving away from them during the term of the policy. You can help protect yourself from these charges by moving to an insurer that will pay some or all of the cancellation fees charged by your old insurer.

    We don’t currently offer home insurance, but if you moved your car insurance to Forces Mutual, any cancellation fees charged by your old insurer up to a maximum of £125 will be paid. So, you can move straight away without waiting till renewal time. To give you an idea of cancellation charges, the average cancellation charge levied in 2024 (after the 14-day cooling off period) for car insurance was £55.[1] Your existing policy documents should tell you what your exact cancellation charge would be.

    You can check out Forces Mutual Car Insurance here.

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    [1] Average Cost to Cancel UK Car Insurance (2024) | NimbleFins

    Sarah Blair

  • Electric Vehicles – a quick guide

    Electric Vehicles – a quick guide

    This article was published on 13 December 2024. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    With the UK Government pledging to reinstate the 2030 ban on the sales of new internal combustion engines (ICE) or put more simply, petrol and diesel cars/vans, we thought it would be a good idea to give you a quick guide on electric vehicles (EV).

    What is an Electric Vehicle (EV)?

    The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology official description is:

    Electric Vehicles use electric motors to drive their wheels. They derive some or all of their power from large, rechargeable batteries. The distance an EV can drive between recharges is known as its range.

    Let’s have a look at the different types and some of the names you might have heard of:

    • All-electric EVs – where the battery is the only power source. The range (distance they can travel) will vary, according to driving style, terrain and the use of auxiliary equipment such as heating/air conditioning.
    • Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) – can switch between running on electricity, petrol or diesel. They typically have a smaller battery, and therefore a lower battery powered range of between 10-40 miles. However their maximum range is equivalent to a petrol or diesel car. Both Plug-in Hybrid and all-electric EVs are recharged by plugging them in to the electricity grid.
    • Hybrids (HEVs) – which do not plug in, such as the Toyota Prius, have a much smaller battery which is recharged while driving. HEVs can drive in electric mode for a few miles and then revert to using petrol or diesel.
    • Fuel Cell Vehicles – generate their own electricity on-board from a fuel such as hydrogen, and do not need to plug in to the electricity grid to recharge. Re-fuelling is similar to a petrol or diesel car.

    Which type of EV is best for me?

    This is a personal choice and will be dependent on a number of factors including, affordability, the type and distance of journeys you make and charging infrastructure where you live.

    According to a UK Government report, 99% of car journeys in England are under 100 miles, so most could be made by an EV without needing to recharge.

    How much do EVs cost?

    Currently EVs cost more to buy than a comparable petrol or diesel vehicle. While they have less mechanical parts than a conventional vehicle, battery prices are a substantial cost. Many modern EVs use lithium-ion batteries and it takes a lot of time and effort to turn raw lithium into something that can be used. Some manufacturers offer incentives and lease plans for the battery, so include this in your car purchase research.

    As EVs become more popular and manufacturers produce more vehicles and models, plus technology improvements, prices are anticipated to reduce.

    Vehicle range

    While vehicle range isn’t an issue with hybrids, as they will run on petrol and diesel, in addition to electric, vehicle range has always been a concern for drivers. It’s therefore encouraging to hear that according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the average electric range for new EVs launched in 2023 was nearly 300 miles, compared to 210 miles in 2020. Of course, some of this will be reflective of the driving conditions, roads and the way you drive, plus use of aircon and technology within the vehicle.

    Charging points

    The term “range anxiety” describes a very real fear of running out of battery and knowing where to charge it up.

    While you can have a charger fitted at home, clearly there will be times when you need to recharge when out and about.

    The good news is that, the number of charging points is increasing. According to Zap Map the number of charging points grows by the day and at the end of October 2024, there were 71,459 electric charging points across 36,060 charging locations (UK only). This represents a 38% increase in the total number of charging devices since October 2023.

    In October 2024, 1,025 new charging devices were added to the Zap-Map database. You can view local ones to you or your journey at zap map live – you might not have even known they were there!

    What about insuring your EVs

    Do I need specialist insurance?

    The simple answer is no. Whilst you can buy specialist insurance for your EV, most major insurers now cover electric cars.

    Does it cost more to insure an EV?

    This can depend on the EV you choose, but according to wepoweryourcar.com, on average, insurance is more expensive than petrol and diesel vehicles in the UK.

    This could be linked to expensive parts, higher repair costs and the availability of garages with qualified mechanics. While electric cars have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles, some components like the lithium-ion batteries are very expensive to repair if damaged.

    As EVs become more commonplace this may change, but also remember that electric cars may benefit from other savings, such as congestion charges and zero vehicle road tax, but it is worth noting that from April 2025, EVs will pay Vehicle Excise Duty (VED).

    Car insurance from Forces Mutual

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance offers policies for a range of EVs. You don’t need to buy a special EV policy and you can get a quote in the usual way.

    You can either call us on 0151 363 5290 or go online at www.forcesmutual.org/car

    Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB.

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    WC CI WEB 0003/0004 v 2 29.11.24

    Tereza Macegova