Car advice

Pay-per-mile car insurance: The economical solution for low-mileage drivers?

La rédaction Modys Publié le 9 December 2025 2 min de lecture
Tableau de bord avec odomètre : Une image montrant un close-up du tableau de bord d'une voiture, en mettant l'accent sur l'odomètre, pour symboliser le suivi des kilomètres.
Publié le 9 December 2025 par Pistonelle Vectalia : date de mise à jour de l'article 9 December 2025

The observation is simple: why pay full price for standard car insurance when you drive fewer kilometers than the average driver? Pay-as-you-drive car insurance, also known as mileage-based insurance, is presented as a flexible and economical option suited to occasional drivers. In this article, we explain this increasingly popular insurance formula. Drive less, pay less: The principle of pay-as-you-drive car insurance explained. Dashboard with odometer: An image showing a close-up of a car’s dashboard, emphasizing the odometer, to symbolize mileage tracking. Dashboard with odometer: An image showing a close-up of a car’s dashboard, emphasizing the odometer, to symbolize mileage tracking.

What is pay-as-you-drive insurance?

Pay-per-mile car insurance is a formula that calculates the insurance premium based on the number of kilometers driven during the year. It is particularly suitable for drivers who use their vehicle infrequently, such as those who prefer public transportation or teleworking.

How does it work?

There are two main types of plans:

  1. The mileage allowance: The insured chooses an annual mileage allowance (for example, 5,000, 8,000, or 10,000 km). If the vehicle is driven less than the agreed allowance, the insured may receive a discount or a refund on their premium. However, if the mileage is exceeded, additional charges may apply.
  2. Pay-per-use: The premium is adjusted according to the actual mileage driven. This is generally tracked via a GPS device installed in the vehicle or by the insured submitting their mileage monthly.

  • Advantages Cost reduction:
  • The savings on insurance premiums can be significant, especially for those who drive less.
  • Flexibility: Some contracts allow you to adjust your coverage during the year if your driving habits change.

  • Transparency: The cost of insurance is directly linked to the actual use of the vehicle, which promotes a fairer approach.
  • Disadvantages
  • Monitoring: The use of GPS tracking devices can raise privacy concerns.

Penalties:

Exceeding the mileage allowance can result in additional costs.

  • Administrative management:
  • Some contracts require regular mileage reporting, which can be burdensome.
  • Who is it ideal for?
  • Pay-per-mile insurance is suitable for:

Occasional drivers

Urban residents who rarely use their car

People who work from home Owners of second vehicles How to subscribe?

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