Omoda, Jaecoo partner with Thatcham to boost insurability, ease of repair

Twin brands Omoda and Jaecoo have partnered with Thatcham Research to streamline vehicle insurability, repair ease and security for its new offerings.

At a recent event at Thatcham’s Berkshire headquarters, Omoda and Jaecoo introduced over 90 insurance companies to the benefits of its collaboration, showcasing how its vehicles are designed with simplified repair processes and readily available parts.

Since May 2023, Omoda and Jaecoo and Thatcham Research have collaborated to integrate insurance-friendly design features into all new models, aligning with Thatcham’s Vehicle Risk Rating system.

This includes safety, security, and repairability improvements in models such as the Omoda 5, Omoda E5, and upcoming models like the Omoda 7, Omoda 9, And Jaecoo 5 and 7.

By addressing repair complexity early in the design process, the brands aim to reduce the insurance risk linked to vehicle repair costs.

Key improvements include modular panel designs that allow localised repairs on side panels and sills, helping reduce repair times and costs.

These processes, supported by repair data on Thatcham’s escribe portal, ensure efficient repair workflows and rapid parts availability. DHL has been selected as the brand’s logistics provider, enabling parts deliveries across the UK within 24 hours.

In addition to repairs, the brands have enhanced vehicle security, aligning with Thatcham’s 1,000-point security standard.

Measures to counter keyless entry theft, onboard diagnostics manipulation, and alloy wheel theft have been implemented, along with a two-minute resistance against forced entry and a five-minute immobilisation system post-breach. Upcoming models will feature Thatcham-certified security devices, including reinforced locking mechanisms and compliant alarms.

Ray Wang, vice president of Omoda and Jaecoo UK, saod the twin brands were dedicated to insurability and customer confidence through a comprehensive aftersales approach, stating: “Ensuring our vehicles are trusted and supported by the insurance industry is central to our customer experience.”

Ben Townsend, head of automotive at Thatcham Research, noted the proactive approach: “The speed at which Omoda and Jaecoo have implemented design changes to improve repair efficiency is impressive and supports a competitive total cost of ownership for drivers.”