January 16, 2025
It's Not Just About Horsepower and Sleek Designs
Released this week, our 2025 Embedded Auto Insurance Study reveals that today’s consumers are laser-focused on affordability, long-term expenses, and, perhaps surprisingly, insurance. Here’s what’s driving these seismic shifts in the automotive world.
Cost-Conscious Consumers Are Redefining Priorities
In 2024, car ownership costs reached a staggering average of $1,024 per month. Shoppers are scrutinizing not just sticker prices but the entire ownership cost, and for many, insurance is now a bigger deal than the car’s brand. Over 62% of buyers ranked insurance costs as a key decision factor—outranking the latest tech and even the automaker’s name.
Insurance Shopping Starts Early—and Takes Time
We found that 57% of buyers research insurance costs before setting foot in a dealership. Once they start, it’s not a quick task—50% of respondents spend more than four hours comparing policies. This early, detailed attention to insurance highlights a growing demand for dealerships to offer integrated, hassle-free insurance solutions.
Embedded Insurance = Higher Satisfaction and Loyalty
Here’s a win-win: 84% of Millennials and Gen Z buyers prefer dealerships that bundle insurance into the purchase process. Why? Convenience. Integrated insurance options make car buying feel seamless, increasing satisfaction and loyalty. Buyers at these dealerships are 82% more likely to recommend them to friends and family and 81% more likely to return for maintenance.
F&I Gross Gets a Boost with Insurance Integration
It’s not just customers reaping the benefits. Our analysis of over 1 million transactions revealed an 18% increase in F&I gross income when dealerships offered embedded insurance options. Presenting competitive rates during the sale builds trust and encourages buyers to invest in additional F&I products like warranties and GAP insurance.
Younger Buyers Are Leading the Charge
Millennials and Gen Z aren’t just shaping trends—they’re setting them. This demographic is more likely to buy economical cars to save on insurance and prioritize digital-first solutions. An overwhelming 88% want to compare insurance options on their phones during the car-buying process. Meeting these expectations is crucial for dealerships aiming to stay ahead.
The Bottom Line
The data is clear: Insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have for dealerships—it’s become a must-have. It streamlines the car-buying experience, builds loyalty, and boosts dealership profits. For dealers looking to thrive in a cost-sensitive market, offering insurance options isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
Ready to meet consumer demands and drive results? Polly’s embedded insurance solutions help dealerships become a one-stop shop for cars and coverage. Sign up for a demo with Polly today.
