Industry News from Yes Insurance

The introduction of electronic stability control (ESC) in cars could help reduce insurance premiums, according to industry experts.

Motor insurance research centre Thatcham is calling on motor manufactures to recognise the benefits of ESC and introduce the technology in all new cars. Surveys have shown ESC to reduce serious injury and death by as much as 40 per cent in some accidents.

In addition, surveys have shown that ESC can reduce damage costs to insurers by as much as 15 per cent when fitted - hinting that premiums could be reduced for users of the technology.

Speaking to Auto Express, Nigel Wonnacott from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said: "The industry has invested heavily in safety systems, and in so doing has saved insurers millions of pounds. It's high time that this was recognised with lower premiums for customers."

Matthew Avery, Thatcham crash laboratory manager, said that ESC should be as common in cars as airbags and ABS.

"It costs only around £50 to manufacture," he argued. "And the cheapest way to fit it is as standard - so why not just do it?"


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