Norwich Union gets high-tech help for telematics-based car insurance

Norwich Union is working with IBM and Orange on a telematics system that could reduce some drivers' insurance premiums by working out how safe they are at the wheel.

The insurer has dubbed the programme 'Pay as you drive' insurance and relies on using technology to collect data to make calculations based on when, where and how a car is used.

IBM is supplying the telematics technology, while Orange's UK network provides the wireless connectivity back to the UK's largest insurer.

NU has a relationship with Ohio-based insurer Progressive, which is pioneering the use of this type of technology in the US.

Robin Duke-Woolley, director at network services consultancy e-principles, has studied various machine-to-machine (M2M) applications and Progressive's progress in the US.

He told silicon.com: "I think [this programme] is workable and provides the opportunity to get lower premiums if you drive more carefully. After all, that's what it's really about - a way for insurance companies to get evidence that some drivers are safe to give lower premiums to."

He said Progressive in the US is using GPS and radio links to monitor drivers and, in certain cases, offer them discounts. Similar M2M systems are being trialled in other sectors, for example farming, where John Deere is analysing harvesting techniques and cattlemen are installing transmitters in herds.

But for all the analysis going on in the automotive insurance industry, Progressive has found the number one indicator for accident likelihood isn't age, male versus female, or being distracted by smoking or speaking on the phone - it is simply how hard drivers apply their brakes.

NU is looking for 5,000 drivers to trial its 'Pay as you drive' programme in the UK this year. To express an interest, consumers can visit www.norwichunion.com or email payasyoudrive@norwich-union.co.uk .