A new digital insurer, Covertime, has entered the UK motor market with a platform designed to meet the growing demand for short-term, on-demand car insurance.
Since its launch, Covertime has positioned itself as a regulated intermediary in the UK motor insurance market. Operating as an insurance intermediary rather than a direct underwriter, Covertime works with a panel of established insurers, including KGM Underwriting Services and Allianz, to arrange cover.
The company offers temporary cover for cars, vans, and learner drivers, providing motorists with an option to buy insurance only when they need it. The service focuses on simplicity, fast transactions, and immediate access to proof of insurance.
Covertime CEO and co-founder Alan Inskip and chief underwriting officer Paul Salter were previously part of the group that helped establish short-term car insurance as a category in the mid-2000s through their earlier venture, Tempcover. Their experience in underwriting, distribution and digital transformation has shaped the company's proposition, which is built around flexibility and customer control rather than long-term commitment.
Commenting on the current market situation, Inskip said that consumer habits have changed, with many drivers no longer finding annual motor policies practical. He explained that Covertime combines years of industry experience with modern technology to create a smarter, more adaptable product.
Meanwhile, Salter said that many motorists still pay thousands for annual policies despite limited vehicle use, and that temporary insurance provides a practical alternative. By allowing customers to pay only when they drive, Covertime aims to offer an affordable solution.
Covertime's launch comes as digital innovation continues to reshape the UK motor insurance sector. According to the company, consumer needs are evolving as many drivers look for pay-as-you-go flexibility rather than long-term commitments. Covertime said its model responds to this shift, offering policies that match how people drive today rather than relying on outdated annual frameworks.
For established insurers, the company's arrival underscores how technology-driven entrants are challenging legacy business models and redefining customer expectations around convenience and coverage.
