Case Study: Turning a “No” Into a Solution
23rd July 2026
The Challenge
A growing business specialising in the manufacture, assembly and conversion of electric vehicles found itself facing a serious insurance challenge.
Operating within a sector often viewed unfavourably by insurers, the company worked with electric vehicles and supplied organisations in sectors such as waste management, local authorities and airside operations. On paper, it appeared to be a difficult risk.
As a result, the business experienced a dramatic increase in insurance costs. Their annual premium had risen from approximately £80,000 to £400,000, key areas of cover had become more restricted, and they were being told by the market that there were few, if any, alternatives available.
The message was clear:
“Take it or leave it. There are no other options.”
Our Approach
At Caunce O’Hara, we weren’t prepared to accept that answer.
Rather than relying on assumptions, automated processes or headline descriptions of the business, we took the time to understand exactly what the company did, how it operated and how its risks were managed.
The first step was to visit the business in person.
What we discovered was very different from the picture many insurers had formed.
Instead of a typical motor trade environment, we found an exceptionally well-run operation. The premises were immaculate, stock levels of lithium batteries were tightly controlled, and robust risk management procedures were embedded throughout the business.
By seeing the operation first-hand, we were able to challenge the misconceptions that had prevented insurers from giving the business fair consideration.
Presenting the Risk Differently
We knew that securing cover would require more than simply submitting a proposal form.
Drawing on our relationships with insurers and our understanding of the market, we developed a detailed risk presentation that went beyond standard facts and figures.
As well as highlighting the business’s operations, management team and risk controls, we tackled common misconceptions surrounding electric vehicles and lithium-ion batteries head-on.
One particularly successful element was a dedicated “Mythbusters” section.
This addressed concerns that insurers often have about electric vehicle risks, using evidence, data and independent reports to challenge assumptions and provide accurate context. We demonstrated the extensive testing the batteries underwent and provided factual information to help insurers better understand the true nature of the risk.
The Result
The impact was immediate.
Insurers that had previously declined to consider the risk agreed to visit the business and see it for themselves.
Three leading A-rated insurance markets ultimately provided terms, despite some having declined the risk outright just 12 months earlier.
One senior surveyor with more than 30 years’ experience described the business as:
“One of the very best risks I’ve seen in over 30 years of surveying.”
The outcome for the client was significant:
✅ Premium spend reduced by more than 50%
✅ Broader cover secured
✅ Previously overlooked insurance gaps identified and addressed
✅ Greater confidence in the long-term sustainability of the insurance programme
✅ Access to leading insurers who had previously declined the risk
Why It Matters
This case demonstrates why insurance should never be treated as a transactional purchase.
Businesses are not simply industry classifications, turnover figures or risk codes. Every organisation has its own story, strengths and approach to risk management.
By taking the time to understand our client, build a compelling case and advocate on their behalf, we were able to achieve an outcome that many had deemed impossible.
At Caunce O’Hara, We Do Things Differently
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all insurance.
We take the time to understand your business, challenge assumptions and present your risk in the best possible light. Because when insurers truly understand the business behind the paperwork, the results can be very different.