Zurich supports first tests of automated transport systems with self-driving buses across Europe

Zurich has been appointed insurance associate by CityMobil2, who are staging the first cross-European pilots of self-driving vehicles. The project is dedicated to the development of automated public transport systems, and both parties will share their knowledge to bring this cutting-edge technology to real life.

Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich) has been appointed as the insurance associate to CityMobil2, an EU-funded research project that is staging tests of automated road transport systems with self-driving buses across Europe. Zurich will contribute specialized management support and consult on insurance solutions to pilot schemes that are taking place in different cities across Europe over the next 12 months (previous demonstrations took place in Switzerland, France and Finland).

CityMobil2 is dedicated to the deployment of automated public transport systems and the development of a legal framework for certifying these systems across the continent. CityMobil2 has been conducting self-driving vehicles (SDVs) demonstrations in Europe since 2014 in an effort to increase awareness of the potential of automated systems to deliver a sustainable mobility service.

Domenico Savarese, Global Head of Telematics and Proposition Development at Zurich, said: “We are pleased to announce this exciting new collaboration with CityMobil2, which will support the development of insurance solutions for automated road transport systems across Europe. On-board sensors (telematics) and SDVs could be disruptive for some parts of society but, at the same time, we expect that they will have a dramatically positive impact in saving lives, reducing accidents and injuries, and increasing productivity, as well as benefiting the environment and road infrastructure. The insurance industry has a very important part to play in the emergence of SDVs on public roads, and the sector’s collaboration with automotive and government entities will help to make SDVs a reality.”

Zurich has an established reputation for innovation in motor technology, including being the world’s first insurer to offer a tailored insurance proposition for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle owners. Zurich will use this expertise to aid CityMobil2 by suggesting customized insurance and risk management strategies.

Savarese continued: “Zurich will play a critical role in the success of self-driving vehicles. We are committed to helping advance this ground-breaking technology, working with regulators, customers and researchers such as the team at CityMobil2.”

Carlos Holguin, Project Manager of CityMobil2, said: “We are delighted to have Zurich as our European insurance ally for the roll-out of pilot SDV schemes across Europe. Zurich brings a wealth of motor industry expertise to the table, and we are confident this collaboration will produce positive results for all stakeholders involved.”