Spoiler alert: Zixty’s short term car insurance policy is not a black box policy, and we’re here to tell you exactly why that is.
Our policies don’t automatically track your driving, so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying the open road safely and flexibly.
But if you want to take it a step further, adding Zixty Miles to your policy allows us to calculate your carbon usage and provide eco-driving tips at no extra cost. We’re all about helping offset driving CO2 and saving fuel here.
So, we can see how Zixty Miles might be confused with a black-box or telematics policy. Let’s look into exactly what a black-box policy is and why Zixty is different.
What is a black-box car insurance policy?
So, you’ve got yourself a sweet ride and now it’s time to insure it. But what is a black-box car insurance policy and is it right for you? Well, it essentially means your insurance company is monitoring your driving. Yup, they’ll know if you’re speeding, for example.
But don’t worry – all this monitoring can actually work in your favour by rewarding good driving behaviour and potentially lowering premiums. And hey, maybe it’ll make you think twice before quickly texting at a red light.
This type of insurance has been a game changer for young drivers who can’t otherwise afford a policy.
Bottom line – black-box policies might not be for everyone, but they can be a good option if you’re looking to save some cash while improving your driving skills.
Are telematics policies a good thing?
Are telematics policies a “good thing?” It all depends on who you ask. For some, these black box policies have been a total lifesaver. Young, new drivers can finally snag affordable insurance prices based on their personal driving behaviour instead of being lumped into a pricey age demographic.
Then there are those telematics sceptics who feel violated by their insurance company tracking every move they make behind the wheel.
But let’s be real, if you have nothing to hide and plan to drive safely and legally, telematics policies shouldn’t be much of an issue.
So before you go throwing shade at the black box in your car, consider all the benefits it could bring to your wallet and your driving record.
At the end of the day, telematics policies may not be for everyone but they definitely serve a purpose for those willing to play by the rules. Cheers to that!
How do black-box policies work?
There are a few different ways that insurance companies monitor our driving behaviour through black boxes or telematics. If you’ve looked into a black box policy, you’ve probably come across these options. But here’s how they actually work.
Under the dashboard
Installing a literal “black-box” under your car’s dashboard is one way to monitor your driving. While these devices can potentially help to lower your insurance premiums, there can be a cost involved and some inconvenience in getting it set up.
Plus, if you decide to switch insurance companies or change cars, you’ll have to go through the process of moving or replacing the device again. And let’s not forget the environmental impact that comes along with producing, distributing, and disposing of these black boxes.
Just something to consider when weighing the pros and cons of telematics car insurance.
Self-Install Devices
Some insurance companies provide a much easier setup that allows drivers to install their own black box devices.
These devices are attached to the inside of your car’s windscreen and require minimal setup – just stick it on and go!
Another advantage is that their visibility could serve as a deterrent for would-be thieves, as they can see that the car is being monitored.
Some self-installed devices are battery-powered, so they’ll need to be charged or replaced regularly.
App-based
Did you know that your phone can do more than just send texts and take pictures? It can also come in handy for car insurance tracking! By using the accelerometer and GPS already built into your device, insurance companies are able to track your vehicle’s movements without the need for a separate black box installation.
Not only is this method more convenient for both the customer and the company, but it is also a much more environmentally friendly option.
There’s no waste from extra batteries or devices, and if you switch vehicles, there’s no need to move or re-install anything.
Do I need a black-box device for a Zixty policy?
Are you wondering if you need a black box device in your car to have a Zixty short term insurance policy? The answer is no. A black box, or any type of tracking device, is not required for our temporary car insurance policies.
However, we do offer an optional free add-on called Zixty Miles. This uses our smartphone app to calculate the CO2 emissions from your driving, as well as provide helpful driving tips.
So while a black box isn’t necessary for our short term policies, there are still options for monitoring and improving your driving. Ultimately, it’s up to you whether or not you want to add Zixty Miles to your policy.
Either way, we’ll still have you covered with our reliable and customisable temporary insurance plans.
What exactly is Zixty Miles?
Enabling Zixty Miles in our app is a great way to kickstart your carbon-offsetting journey.
Not only do you get exclusive benefits, but we also calculate your EcoScore based on your driving behaviour.
Then, we partner with Eden Reforestation Projects to plant trees and offset those emissions. Yup, we plant a lot of trees here at Zixty!
But that’s not all! We even give personalised tips on how to improve your EcoScore and become a carbon-negative driver.
Does a Zixty policy have curfews?
A Zixty short term car insurance policy does not have any curfews or driving restrictions – even if you add Zixty Miles to your policy to benefit from carbon offsetting.
You can drive anywhere at any time in the locations covered by your policy.
So whether it’s a late-night food run or a spontaneous road trip, feel free to hit the road with Zixty.
And bonus – adding on Zixty Miles allows for carbon offsetting, so you can feel good about where you’re driving too.
Does Zixty cost more based on my driving?
Are we going to judge you and hike up your premiums just because you didn’t get a perfect Zixty Miles score? Nope, that’s not how we roll.
In fact, one of the only things that may affect your premiums is if you pick up any driving convictions, claims, or disqualifications during your policy period. We might take these into account when you request a quote from us again.
But hey, that means it’s in your best interest to drive safely and follow the rules, right?
Will Zixty cancel my policy if I drive badly?
Don’t worry about getting your policy cancelled if you’re not the best driver in the world. Zixty is all about giving you insurance on what you drive, not how well you drive it.
All our optional Zixty Miles add-on does is measure your driving to calculate your carbon emissions and offer you tips on improving.
So there’s no need to stress about impressing us! Just do your (legal) thing.
Who can see my location if I have enabled Zixty Miles?
Are you wondering who can see your whereabouts if you switch on Zixty Miles in your car? Your Mum? Your ex? Your partner? Worry not.
Feel free to borrow your friend’s car and road trip to your heart’s content without worrying about anyone else knowing where you are.
We promise we won’t be peeking at your travels and will only collect, store, and process your data in line with our Privacy Policy. We’ll be too busy planting trees to stalk you.
Is Zixty a black-box policy: An overview
The Zixty Miles feature on our policy may have you wondering if Zixty is a black-box policy after all. We’re here to tell you that it isn’t. Our team at Zixty has zero interest in tracking your every move when it comes to your driving style.
Instead, Zixty Miles is all about helping you mitigate your carbon footprint and save on fuel without any additional cost to you.
So go ahead, and enjoy the open road without feeling like you’re being monitored. Plus, there are some pretty sweet eco-driving tips thrown in as a bonus
