Belfast, 1 October 2024 – Over 20 representatives from Northern Ireland’s insurance industry recently gathered for a unique event hosted by Clyde & Co, where they were able to go behind the scenes of Tesla’s flagship centre in Belfast.

During the evening, clients were able to learn about the latest innovations in electric vehicles (EVs) from Tesla engineers, take a tour of the workshop and enjoy a test drive of a Tesla Model Y vehicle.

The event was also an opportunity to hear from Clyde & Co’s head of policy development, Alistair Kinley, on whether enough is being done to promote EVs in order to meet the Government’s legally binding 2050 net zero target. Partner, Paddy Connolly, and senior associate, Laura Connor, also spoke about the latest developments affecting motor claims in Northern Ireland.

Barriers to improving the take up of electric and hybrid vehicles discussed included the cost compared with their petrol and diesel counterparts, how up to 40% per cent of UK households do not having off-street parking at home and are, therefore, entirely reliant on public charging, and an inconsistency in public charge points nationally.

Clyde & Co partner, Cormac Fitzpatrick, said “The legislation in place to end the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035 will have profound implications for motor insurance. We were, therefore, pleased to bring together clients from across Northern Ireland to provide an insight into the pioneering work of one of the world’s largest manufacturers of electric vehicles.

“As the UK’s leading provider of Casualty services, and with a 60-strong team in Northern Ireland, we look forward to continuing to guide and support clients in adapting to the evolving automotive landscape.”