As the mobility sector undergoes a profound transformation, driven by cutting-edge technologies and shifting consumer behaviors, few are better positioned to unpack these changes than Simon Glairy. With his deep expertise in insurance and Insurtech, particularly in risk management and AI-driven risk assessment, Simon offers a unique perspective on how insurers and providers are navigating this dynamic landscape. In our conversation, we explore the sweeping trends reshaping mobility, from the rise of electric vehicles and autonomous driving to the challenges of affordability and the importance of innovative partnerships. We also delve into the complexities of the broader mobility ecosystem and the evolving needs of customers seeking flexibility over ownership.
How do you see the mobility sector evolving right now, and what are the most significant forces driving these changes?
The mobility sector is in the midst of a massive shift, largely driven by technology and changing customer expectations. We’re seeing a move away from traditional car ownership toward more flexible models like leasing and subscriptions. This is fueled by rapid advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving tech, and even micro-mobility solutions like e-scooters. Sustainability is also a huge factor—people want greener options, and companies are racing to meet that demand. It’s a fast-paced environment where innovation often outruns regulations, which creates both opportunities and challenges for everyone involved.
What role do emerging technologies play in transforming how the mobility industry operates?
Emerging tech is the backbone of this transformation. Electric vehicles are rewriting the rules with their focus on battery tech and charging infrastructure, while autonomous driving systems are pushing boundaries with AI and sensor technology. Beyond that, connected services—like real-time traffic data or smart city integrations—are creating a more seamless experience for users. These technologies aren’t just add-ons; they’re fundamentally changing how companies design products, assess risks, and interact with customers. It’s a whole new playing field.
Can you paint a picture of what today’s mobility ecosystem looks like, considering it now stretches far beyond just vehicles?
Absolutely. The mobility ecosystem today is incredibly broad and interconnected. It’s not just about cars or trucks anymore—it includes everything from drones and e-bikes to smart traffic lights and even entire urban planning systems designed for efficiency. Think of it as a web of technologies, services, and stakeholders all working together, or at least trying to. You’ve got vehicle manufacturers, tech providers, city planners, and insurers all playing a role. To stay competitive, companies have to think beyond their own products and consider how they fit into this larger puzzle.
How are customer preferences shifting, and why do you think flexibility is becoming so important to them?
Customers are increasingly stepping away from the idea of owning a car for life. Instead, they’re gravitating toward leasing or subscription models that let them adapt to new tech or lifestyle changes without long-term commitments. I think this stems from a desire for flexibility—people want to try the latest EV or switch to a different mode of transport without being locked in. Plus, with technology evolving so quickly, nobody wants to be stuck with yesterday’s innovation. It’s all about staying agile in a fast-moving world.
What opportunities and challenges do you see in the rise of electric mobility, especially around battery technology?
Electric mobility is a goldmine of opportunity, especially as the push for sustainability grows. EVs can reduce emissions and operating costs over time, which is a win for both consumers and the planet. But the challenges are just as big—batteries are expensive, making up a huge chunk of an EV’s cost, and their lifespan and performance are still unpredictable. Charging infrastructure is another hurdle; it’s not evenly distributed, which can limit adoption. Businesses need to tackle these issues head-on, whether through better battery monitoring or innovative financing models to ease the upfront burden.
Turning to autonomous driving, how close are we to seeing this technology become a common part of everyday life?
We’re making strides with autonomous driving, and in some markets, you’re already seeing early applications, like robo-taxis or delivery bots. But we’re still a ways off from it being mainstream. The tech is advancing fast, with AI and sensors getting better every day, but real-world deployment faces hurdles like regulatory uncertainty and public trust. It’s one thing to have a self-driving car work in a controlled test, but navigating unpredictable human behavior on busy streets is a whole different challenge. I’d say we’re on the cusp, but it’s going to take time and collaboration to get there.
Why is partnering with experienced players so critical when it comes to managing risks in areas like autonomous tech or electric vehicles?
Partnering up is essential because the risks in these areas are so complex and often uncharted. With autonomous tech, for instance, there’s very little historical data to base risk models on, unlike traditional auto insurance. Experienced partners—whether insurers or tech specialists—bring expertise and perspective that can help companies anticipate pitfalls and design better strategies. For EVs, partners can help navigate battery-related risks or residual value concerns. Going it alone in such a fast-evolving space is a recipe for getting left behind.
With costs like repairs and premiums on the rise, how can the industry keep mobility services affordable for customers?
Rising costs are a real pain point right now, from repair bills to reinsurance premiums. To keep things affordable, insurers and providers need to get creative. One approach is leveraging data and tech—like telematics or AI—to tailor pricing and coverage to individual usage patterns, so customers aren’t overpaying. Another is streamlining operations to cut overheads. There’s also a push to expand coverage options in underinsured markets or for new models like shared mobility, which can spread costs across more users. It’s about finding balance through innovation.
What’s your forecast for the future of mobility, particularly in terms of balancing innovation with risk management?
I’m optimistic about the future of mobility, but it’s going to be a tightrope walk. We’ll see incredible innovations—think fully autonomous fleets or cities built around sustainable transport—but the risks will grow just as fast. The key will be balancing that innovation with robust risk management. Insurers and providers will need to lean on data, partnerships, and forward-thinking strategies to stay ahead of challenges like regulatory shifts or tech failures. If done right, I believe the next decade could redefine how we move, making it safer, greener, and more accessible for everyone.
