Starting in 2025, car insurance classifications in Germany will undergo significant changes, affecting over twelve million vehicle owners.
These changes, determined by the German Insurance Association (GDV), are based on the claims history and associated costs of car models. Approximately 5.1 million policyholders will benefit from lower insurance costs due to more favorable type classes, while around 7.1 million vehicle owners will face increased premiums as they move into higher classifications. However, about 30 million car owners will see no change in their insurance status.
The GDV evaluates around 33,000 car models annually, categorizing them into different type classes based on their claims data from previous years. Type classes play a crucial role in determining insurance premiums, with lower classes generally resulting in cheaper rates. The classification system consists of three main categories: third-party liability, partially comprehensive, and fully comprehensive insurance. Each category has its own scale, with lower type classes indicating lower damage rates and repair costs.
The GDV's classification process also considers factors such as the popularity of certain models among younger drivers, who statistically pose a higher risk of accidents.
Specific vehicle models will experience notable changes in their insurance classifications in 2025. For example, the Ford B-Max 1.4 will see a decrease in both third-party liability and partially comprehensive classes, while the Hyundai Tucson 1.6 will benefit from a more substantial reduction in its partially and fully comprehensive classifications. On the other hand, the Audi SQ5 3.0 TFSI Quattro will drop three classes, potentially leading to increased insurance expenses for its owners. The Peugeot 3008 HDI will also see a two-class drop, highlighting the variability in insurance costs based on model classification.
These changes emphasize the importance of understanding how vehicle choice can impact insurance expenses. The adjustments in car insurance classifications coincide with broader economic changes in Germany, including pension and tax reforms. Staying informed about specific model classifications and their financial implications is crucial for vehicle owners.
The GDV's annual review not only affects individual policyholders but also shapes the overall insurance market, influencing how insurers assess risk and set premiums. Understanding these classifications empowers consumers to make informed decisions about vehicle purchases and insurance options in an increasingly complex market.