Category: News & Blogs

  • Gerhard Berger’s Stolen Ferrari 512M Finally Returns Home

    Gerhard Berger’s Stolen Ferrari 512M Finally Returns Home

    In the world of Formula One, speed is everything. But for Gerhard Berger’s stolen Ferrari F512 M, the journey home took nearly three decades.

    After vanishing during the 1995 San Marino Grand Prix at Imola, the rare Italian supercar has finally been recovered by the Metropolitan Police and Scotland Yard. It is a story of international mystery, a desperate chase in a hatchback, and a high-stakes recovery mission.

    The Imola Heist: A Bold Escape

    The drama began in April 1995. While Berger was preparing to compete at the legendary Imola circuit, thieves targeted the Ferrari driver’s personal car.

    In a moment of pure adrenaline, Berger reportedly caught the theft in progress. He attempted to block the path of the bright red Ferrari as it was being driven away, but the thief showed no mercy. Berger was forced to jump clear at the last second to avoid being struck.

    Refusing to give up, the F1 ace jumped into a friend’s Volkswagen Golf to give chase. While Berger’s skills behind the wheel are legendary, the humble Golf was no match for the V12-powered Ferrari. The supercar vanished, leaving Berger and the police with no leads.

    Gerhards Berger’s Stolen Ferrari Was A Rare Icon

    The car in question is no ordinary Ferrari. The F512 M was the final and most refined evolution of the iconic Testarossa.

    • Rarity: Only 501 units were ever produced globally.
    • Exclusivity: Just 75 of those were destined for the North American market.
    • Value: Today, the car is valued at an estimated £350,000.

    Gerhard Berger wasn’t the only victim that weekend. His then Ferrari teammate, Jean Alesi, also had his Ferrari F355 stolen at Imola. While Berger’s car has finally surfaced, Alesi’s F355 remains missing to this day.

    Ferrari 355 a car that was owned by Gerhard Berger
    This image demonstrates a Ferrari 355 GTS a car that was owned by F1 driver Jean Alesi

    The Global Trail: From Japan to London

    For 28 years, the stolen Ferrari remained a ghost. However, in January of this year, a report reached the Metropolitan Police directly from Ferrari.

    The manufacturer had been performing checks on a car being purchased by an American buyer through a UK-based broker. The Organised Vehicle Crime Unit stepped in and uncovered a globetrotting trail:

    1. The Theft: Stolen in Italy in 1995.
    2. The Transit: Shipped to Japan shortly after the crime.
    3. The Return: Brought into the UK in late 2023.

    As soon as the car touched British soil, authorities moved quickly to seize the vehicle and prevent it from being exported yet again.

    “Painstaking Inquiries”

    The recovery was a masterclass in international cooperation. Pc Mike Pilbeam, who led the investigation of the stolen Ferrari, highlighted the effort required to close the case:

    “We worked quickly with partners including the National Crime Agency, as well as Ferrari and international car dealerships. This collaboration was instrumental in understanding the vehicle’s background and stopping it from leaving the country.”

    Despite being missing for over a quarter of a century, the authorities managed to track the car’s final movements in just four days. While the investigation remains ongoing and no arrests have been made, the red icon is finally off the black market.

    Protecting Your Passion with VINTTRO Cover

    Stories like Gerhard Berger’s stolen Ferrari highlight exactly why specialised protection is essential for high-value assets. Whether you own a rare Ferrari F512 M or a growing collection of niche vehicles, VINTTRO Cover provides bespoke insurance solutions designed specifically for enthusiasts. From Agreed Value coverage that reflects the true market worth of appreciating classics to Multi-Vehicle policies that simplify the management of an entire stable, VINTTRO Cover understands the unique risks of the niche car world.

    Don’t leave your “pride and joy” to chance; ensure your collection has the specialist protection it deserves, both at home and across the globe.

  • The Jeremy Kyle Appearance That Tanked a £490k Fraudulent Insurance Claim

    The Jeremy Kyle Appearance That Tanked a £490k Fraudulent Insurance Claim

    They say the truth eventually comes to light, but for Patricia Rogers, it happened under the bright studio lights of national television.

    In a case that has stunned insurance investigators, a 25-year-old woman from Barnsley has been sentenced after her appearance on The Jeremy Kyle Show provided the “smoking gun” evidence needed to dismantle a massive fraudulent insurance claim.

    The Half-Million Pound Lie

    The saga began in 2014 following a genuine motor vehicle accident. Rogers claimed the incident left her with debilitating back pain, asserting she was unable to walk unaided or stand for more than 10 minutes.

    Seeking damages totaling £492,141 from her insurer, NFU Mutual, she maintained a sophisticated “pretence” for nearly a decade. To support her claim, she attended medical appointments leaning heavily on a walking stick, presenting herself as a victim with a severely diminished quality of life.

    The “Miraculous” TV Recovery

    The cracks in her story didn’t just appear; they ran across a TV stage. Investigators discovered footage of Rogers on The Jeremy Kyle Show in 2017. Despite her claims of being unable to walk without assistance, she was filmed running across the set unaided.

    When confronted by the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), Rogers offered a creative defense: she claimed the “anger” she felt during the filming distracted her from her physical pain, allowing her to run.

    The Surveillance Breakthrough

    Beyond the Jeremy Kyle TV appearance, NFU Mutual conducted extensive surveillance in April 2021, which revealed a pattern of “gross exaggeration”:

    • The Taxi Trick: Footage showed Rogers walking to a taxi with a walking stick merely hanging from her arm. Upon arriving at her medical appointment, she suddenly began leaning heavily on the stick for the benefit of the doctors.
    • The Dog Walk: On the same day she claimed she couldn’t stand for 10 minutes, she was filmed walking her two dogs for 40 minutes with no visible discomfort.
    • The Lead Logic: Rogers told police she couldn’t hold a dog lead and a walking stick simultaneously, yet surveillance showed her doing exactly that.
    A person in a yellow hoodie and hat standing in a wooded area, looking through a camera or binoculars to conduct surveillance from a distance.
    Surveillance footage often plays a critical role in uncovering inconsistencies in personal injury claims.

    At Sheffield Crown Court, Rogers admitted to fraud by false representation. The consultant orthopaedic surgeon concluded her condition was either “grossly exaggerated” or entirely psychological.

    She was handed a 12-month jail term (suspended for 18 months) and ordered to pay £500 in compensation. Detective Constable Carley Parodi described her actions as “astounding,” noting that Rogers believed she could outsmart medical professionals and insurers for years. This was clearly a fraudulent claim

    Why Integrity Matters:

    Insurance fraud is often mistakenly viewed as a “victimless” crime, but the reality is far more damaging. As Richard Turnell of NFU Mutual noted, these fraudulent insurance claims ultimately drive up premiums for every honest policyholder. When individuals exaggerate or fabricate injuries for financial gain, it drains resources and increases the operational costs for insurers, costs that are inevitably passed back to the public.

    In the world of specialist and niche vehicles, where valuations are high and the community is tight-knit, this impact is felt even more acutely. Fraudulent activity can lead to stricter underwriting, higher barriers to entry for unique coverages and a general atmosphere of scepticism that hurts genuine claimants. Maintaining integrity within the insurance pool ensures that when a real accident happens, the support and funds are there for those who truly need them.

    VINTTRO Cover

    We believe in providing our clients with honest and robust insurance protection they deserve. Whether you are insuring a prized Ferrari collection or a unique niche build, our bespoke policies are built on transparency and expertise. By offering tailored terms, we ensure that your lifestyle is protected against genuine risks. Don’t let the actions of a few impact your peace of mind, trust a specialist who understands the true value of your insurance needs.

  • Our CEO, Simon Bennett- My £40,000 Mistake: Why I’m Done with Leasing Daily Drivers

    Our CEO, Simon Bennett- My £40,000 Mistake: Why I’m Done with Leasing Daily Drivers

    Simon Bennett, writes this blog about the financial loss he has suffered through the ignorance of the love of cars.

    Ok, before I dig deep into this, let me get one thing straight: I’m talking about the daily drivers. The school-run shuttles, the back-and-forth commute, the 12,000-miles-a-year workhorses. I’m not even including the costs of servicing, maintenance, tax, or insurance in the figures below, this is purely about the “hole in the pocket” that is depreciation and monthly payments.

    I admit it: I have a ridiculous addiction. When I get bored, I buy another car. But looking back at my history of daily drivers, I’ve realised this familiar practice is just a complete waste of money.

    The £17,000 “Lightbulb Moment”

    The catalyst for this blog was a conversation with my stepfather, David. Just under three years ago, he bought a brand-new electric Nissan for £27,000. Recently, he became uncomfortable after reading about potential battery replacement costs exceeding £13,000, so he looked into trading it for a Hybrid Toyota Yaris priced at £24,000.

    To his shock, he was offered just £10,000 for his Nissan.

    Despite having covered only 9,000 miles in three years, the car had lost £17,000 in value. It seems some electric car values are falling like a stone, often losing significantly more than the average 50–60% expected for most new cars in their first three years. I managed to talk him out of it, trading that car would be like throwing £50 notes into a fire pit. Instead, I convinced him to buy a top-of-the-range 65-inch TV and keep the Nissan. Job done, and £14,000 saved.

    My Hall of Shame: A Decade of Leasing

    Looking back at my own history, I’ve been just as guilty of burning cash. Between 2006 and 2015, I spent a staggering £38,652 on lease deals, Simon said:

    • 2006–2009 (Lexus IS): £12,121 total
    • 2009–2012 (Audi A5): £17,901 total
    • 2012–2015 (Mercedes E-Class): £19,539 total

    At the end of those nine years, I had completely nothing to show for it. No asset, no equity, just a very expensive way to buy someone else’s car.

    The “Impractical” Phase

    In 2016, I tried to break the cycle by buying a second-hand BMW Z4 for £21,000. It was fun, but thirsty and the two-seater life didn’t suit my business needs. When I traded it in a year later, I lost another £4,000.

    I moved into a new Audi Avant for £33,000. It was practical and “cool-ish,” but ultimately a bit boring. Three years later? Another £10,000 gone in depreciation.

    Even my rural “sensible” purchase a Range Rover for £11,000 cost me £2,500 in a year because I lived in constant fear of the crankshaft snapping or the electronics failing, a common anxiety in enthusiast circles.

    The Pocket Rocket & The Final Straw

    By 2022, working from home meant I only covered 6,000 miles a year. I bought a Fiat 500 Abarth for £14,000. It was an absolute “pocket rocket,” but the build quality felt like a baked bean tin. My wife hated it, fearing for my safety every time I passed a 38-tonne lorry. I sold it 18 months later for £9,800, another £4,200 loss.

    The Strategy: Beating the Curve

    When I added it all up, I’ve wasted an average of £4,000 per year for 18 years. That is simply ridiculous.

    So, what is the solution for someone doing 6k–8k miles a year who still wants a reliable, stylish car?

    1. Don’t lease: It’s a guaranteed loss.
    2. Don’t buy brand new: You lose 20% the moment you drive off the forecourt.
    3. Buy at the bottom of the curve: Look for a car that has already lost the bulk of its residual value.

    My choice is a Mercedes E-Class 350 CDI Coupe. It’s stylish, relatively low mileage, and a fantastic cruiser. I picked up a near-immaculate example with a full Mercedes history for just £8,000. While £8,000 is still a lot of money, compared to the tens of thousands I’ve wasted in the past, it’s an absolute bargain.

    Like Simon, have you fallen victim to the “new car” money pit? Does the cost of depreciation bother you, or is the “new car smell” worth the price tag?

    Let me know your thoughts in the comments, I’m off to polish my classics… at least they’re worth every penny!

  • Is Your Insurer Lowballing You? The FCA Issues a Stern Warning Over Vehicle Valuations

    Is Your Insurer Lowballing You? The FCA Issues a Stern Warning Over Vehicle Valuations

    If your car or van is stolen or written off, the last thing you need is a secondary battle with your insurance company over what it’s worth. Unfortunately, a recent review by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) suggests that for many drivers, that battle is becoming a reality.

    The regulator has uncovered evidence that some motor insurers are consistently offering customers settlements below the actual market value of their vehicles. Even more concerning? Some firms only seem to offer a fair price once a customer officially complains.

    The “Wait and See” Strategy

    The FCA’s findings highlight a troubling trend where initial offers are intentionally low. This “lowballing” forces the burden onto the consumer to prove their car’s worth, despite the FCA’s previous warnings in December 2022 that this practice must stop.

    “Having your vehicle written off or stolen can be intensely stressful,” says Sheldon Mills, Executive Director of Consumers and Competition at the FCA. “We expect firms to offer the right support and we are engaging directly with those that have issues that need to be addressed.”

    The Impact of Consumer Duty

    Since July 2023, the stakes have been higher for insurers due to the Consumer Duty. This regulation isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a requirement for firms to:

    • Put consumers at the heart of their business.
    • Act to deliver “good outcomes.”
    • Provide support during the claims process, rather than creating hurdles.

    When an insurer offers a settlement they know is below market value, they aren’t just being “frugal” they are likely in breach of these fundamental regulatory requirements.

    A blue car rear-ending a black car in a motor accident on a road, symbolising a claims dispute requiring expert legal and Accident Management Services.
    When negotiation isn’t enough, VINTTRO is ready to defend or recover. We provide robust motor claims litigation services, supported by skilled legal partners to achieve the optimal resolution for your claim.

    What Should You Do if Your Claim Feels Low?

    If you are currently dealing with a claim and the offer feels like a “lowball,” you have clear paths for recourse:

    1. Don’t accept the first offer immediately: Research the market value using reputable price guides and local listings for similar makes, models, and conditions.
    2. File a formal complaint: State clearly why you believe the valuation is incorrect. Under current FCA observations, many firms are only correcting their offers at this stage.
    3. Escalate to the Ombudsman: If your insurer refuses to budge, you can take your case to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). They have the power to overrule the insurer if the valuation is deemed unfair.

    The Bottom Line

    The FCA warning: We are watching and we will be engaging with the firms identified in the review to ensure they improve their valuation processes. For the insurance industry, the message is clear: Fair value is a right, not a negotiation tactic.

    The VINTTRO Claims Advantage

    At VINTTRO Cover, we believe you shouldn’t have to navigate these hurdles alone. We have our own in-house claims team dedicated to guiding you through any anomalies in your motor insurance cover. Whether you are facing a valuation dispute or general claims-related issues, our experts are here to provide the peace of mind that comes with VINTTRO Cover. We don’t just provide a policy; we provide the comfort of knowing someone is in your corner when it matters most.

  • House of Lords Blames “Mr. Bean” Actor for Slump in Electric Car Sales

    House of Lords Blames “Mr. Bean” Actor for Slump in Electric Car Sales

    Rowan Atkinson, the world-renowned actor famous for his love of high-performance cars and racing, has been named in a House of Lords inquiry for contributing to a “plunge” in electric vehicle (EV) sales.

    The Blackadder star, 69, famously described EVs as “a bit soulless” in a 2023 opinion piece. The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee has since suggested that Atkinson’s comments were partly responsible for “damaging” public perception of the technology.

    The “Honeymoon” is Over

    The controversy stems from an article Rowan Atkinson penned for The Guardian in June 2023. Despite being an early adopter of electric tech, Atkinson wrote: “Increasingly, I feel a little duped… I’m feeling that our honeymoon with electric cars is coming to an end, and that’s no bad thing.” While Atkinson is best known for his comedic roles, he holds a degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and a Master’s in Control Systems. He used this technical background to argue that while EVs are “wonderful mechanisms,” the environmental cost of their lithium-ion batteries and the speed at which they are being pushed on the public, should be more closely scrutinized.

    A close-up of an electric vehicle (EV) charging port with a cable plugged in, representing VINTTRO's expertise in EV fleet management and compliance with new DVLA registration standards for electric conversions.
    Future-proof accident management. As your fleet transitions to electric vehicles, VINTTRO is already equipped with the expertise and network to handle specialised EV repairs, battery management and claims, ensuring your sustainable operations never slow down.

    Debunked or Discerning?

    The Green Alliance pressure group hit back during the House of Lords inquiry, stating: “One of the most damaging articles was a comment piece written by Rowan Atkinson in The Guardian, which has been roundly debunked.” EV advocates, including Simon Evans of Carbon Brief, accused the actor of misrepresenting the lifecycle benefits of batteries. Evans noted: “Mr. Atkinson’s biggest mistake is his failure to recognize that electric vehicles already offer significant global environmental benefits compared with combustion-engine cars.”

    A Growing Scepticism

    However, many consumers appear to align more with Rowan Atkinson than the committee. Rising purchase costs, a lack of charging infrastructure, and mixed messaging from the government have all played a role in cooling the market.

    Baroness Parminter, chair of the inquiry, pointed out that transport remains the UK’s highest-emitting sector for CO2. She argued that the government’s failure to provide “clear and consistent messaging” created a vacuum that allowed “inaccurate reporting” to take hold.

    The Counter-Argument

    Not everyone in Parliament agrees with blaming a celebrity for the market’s shift. Greg Smith, a member of the Commons Transport Committee, delivered a scathing defense of consumer choice:

    “It’s total hypocrisy for people who don’t even drive EVs themselves to have the bare-faced cheek to tell others they should drop an absolute ton of money on one. People should be free to choose what cars they buy and drive. The reliability issues with battery electric cars are real, and to try and sweep that under the carpet is just potty.”

    As the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars approaches, the debate between enthusiast “soul” and environmental strategy continues to accelerate.


  • Silent Royalty: Jason Momoa’s 1929 Rolls-Royce Goes Electric

    Silent Royalty: Jason Momoa’s 1929 Rolls-Royce Goes Electric

    Hollywood star Jason Momoa best known for his roles in Aquaman, Dune, and Game of Thrones, has always had a passion for classic craftsmanship. Recently, he took that passion to the next level by commissioning a groundbreaking electric conversion of his vintage 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II.

    The Partner: Electrogenic

    To pull off this “dream project,” Jason Momoa turned to Electrogenic, a world-leading EV technology company based in Kidlington, Oxfordshire. Known for their “sympathetic” conversions, the team spent 18 months transforming the nearly century-old icon.

    “I needed a team that would appreciate the storied history of this car while updating its technology,” Momoa explained. “Electrogenic is all about honouring classic cars and making them electric without losing any of the vehicle’s character.”

    Engineering the “Unbearable”

    The Phantom II was originally powered by a massive 7.7-litre pushrod straight-six engine. Electrogenic replaced this with a 93kWh battery pack and a high-performance electric powertrain.

    The result? A car that is now:

    • Four times more powerful than the original (delivering 150kW/201hp).
    • Weight-neutral, meaning the new components didn’t add bulk to the two-tonne chassis.
    • Capable of 150 miles of real-world range on a single charge.

    The conversion wasn’t just about the motor; it was a “labour of love” that required re-engineering the car’s complex cable-operated braking system and its famous “through-flow” chassis lubrication system to work with modern EV architecture.

    Modern Comforts, Vintage Soul

    While the exterior remains a masterpiece of 1920s design, the interior received subtle modern upgrades. The original gauges were creatively repurposed, the fuel sight glass is now an LED battery indicator and a high-end, multi-speaker Bluetooth audio system was discreetly hidden within the leather and wood-lined cabin.

    The entire process was filmed for Momoa’s new Discovery+ series, “On The Roam,” showcasing the incredible intersection of heritage and future-proof technology.

    What Do You Think?

    Converting a classic Rolls-Royce to EV: A stroke of genius by Jason Momoa, or should it have stayed original? While some see it as preserving history for the next generation, others miss the smell of petrol and that iconic engine note.

    Where do you stand on the EV vs. Original debate?

    The VINTTRO Advantage

    At VINTTRO, we understand that whether you’re driving a modern EV or a converted 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom, your cover needs to be as unique as your vehicle. We have our own in-house claims team dedicated to guiding you through any anomalies in your motor insurance cover or claims-related issues. That is the comfort and peace of mind you get when insuring through VINTTRO Cover.

    Find Out More

    • Explore Electrogenic: Visit their website here.
    • See the Photos: View the BBC’s full gallery of Jason Momoa’s Rolls-Royce here.
  • The Amazon Insurance Exit: Why the Tech Giant Couldn’t Disrupt the Status Quo

    The Amazon Insurance Exit: Why the Tech Giant Couldn’t Disrupt the Status Quo

    Amazon entered the UK insurance comparison market just 15 months ago with The Amazon Insurance Store, but following an internal evaluation, the decision has been taken to close this arm of the business.

    As reported by Reuters, the e-commerce giant introduced Amazon Insurance to select customers on October 19th, 2022, followed by a nationwide rollout by the end of the same year. Initially, the panel featured home insurers Ageas UK, Co-op, and LV=, later adding Policy Expert and Urban Jungle. However, the experiment ended after less than a year and a half.

    The Challenge of Disruption

    While Amazon officially cited “prioritisation” and a “strategic review,” several industry factors likely influenced the decision.

    • The “Big Four” Dominance: Established comparison sites currently hold a combined market share of over 95%, making it incredibly difficult for a newcomer, even one as large as Amazon, to gain a foothold.
    • A Narrow Selection: With only five providers on the panel, Amazon struggled to compete with established platforms that offer over 100 choices, making it difficult to guarantee the “best” price for every consumer.
    • A Lack of Differentiation: Industry experts noted that the store didn’t solve a specific pain point beyond simply being an Amazon-branded service, failing to offer a unique “Value Proposition”.

    From Comparison to “Embedded” Insurance

    Amazon’s exit doesn’t necessarily mean they are done with insurance. Many analysts predict a pivot toward “Embedded Insurance” the practice of selling coverage as a seamless part of a product purchase, such as offering home insurance alongside a Ring doorbell.

    The Perspective

    The exit of a tech giant is a stark reminder that in the insurance world, specialist expertise and choice still reign supreme. It is one thing to master the logistics of e-commerce; it is quite another to master the complex, high-trust world of personal risk.

    At VINTTRO Cover, we see this as a validation that customers still value a “one-stop-shop” that understands their specific lifestyle rather than a generic algorithm.

    What are your thoughts on this announcement? Does Amazon’s exit prove that traditional specialist brokers still have the upper hand, or is the next great disruptor just around the corner?

  • JLR Tackles the Insurance Crisis with New Bespoke Coverage

    JLR Tackles the Insurance Crisis with New Bespoke Coverage

    Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has officially stepped back into the insurance ring. After a challenging period that saw many mainstream insurers retreat from the Range Rover market, the manufacturer has launched its own dedicated insurance scheme to restore confidence and protect its drivers.

    The move comes after the brand’s previous insurance partner ceased operations last November, leaving many owners facing astronomical premiums or, in many cases, a total refusal of cover. This “insurance desert” didn’t just hit owners’ wallets; it began to impact new car sales and caused a noticeable dip in second-hand values.

    A Data-Driven Solution

    Partnering with Allianz Partners, the new scheme went live in October and has already been adopted by over 4,000 clients.

    The launch follows JLR’s £10 million investment in vehicle security updates. These upgrades are proving effective: data from the Police National Computer recently cited a 40% drop in thefts for Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models built between 2018 and 2022.

    The Fine Print: What You Need to Know

    The new policy is designed for flexibility, though it does come with a few specific eligibility requirements:

    • Age & Value: Drivers must be 30 years of age or older, and the vehicle’s value must be below £150,000.
    • Flexible Terms: The policy features no deposits or interest charges. Better yet, clients can modify or cancel coverage without incurring the usual mid-term adjustment fees.
    • Price Guarantee: Pricing is locked in for 12 months, providing much-needed stability in a volatile market.
    • Expert Repairs: If monthly payments are below £200, the policy guarantees that any necessary repairs are handled exclusively by JLR-authorised body repair centers.

    How VINTTRO Cover Can Help

    While JLR’s new scheme is a great step forward, we understand that standard manufacturer policies don’t always fit every lifestyle, especially if you own a highly modified vehicle, a classic model, or a multi-car collection.

    At VINTTRO Cover, we specialise in providing bespoke insurance solutions for JLR owners who need a more personal touch. Whether your vehicle exceeds the £150k value cap or you’re looking for an Agreed Value policy to protect your investment from market depreciation, we have you covered. Our team works with a panel of specialist underwriters to find competitive rates even for models that traditional insurers avoid. From the latest Range Rover to a cherished classic Defender, we bring your everyday and niche vehicles under one trusted roof with flexible, high-standard protection.

    Beyond the Range Rover

    The JLR scheme (and our specialist cover) is inclusive of the entire JLR family:

    • Defender
    • Discovery
    • Jaguar models

    To explore the specifics of the manufacturer’s new product, visit the Jaguar Land Rover website.

    Ready for a quote that actually fits? Call us today on 0333 4042 007 to discuss your specialist JLR insurance needs.

  • The Rising Demand for Motorhomes -And the Thieves That Following Them

    The Rising Demand for Motorhomes -And the Thieves That Following Them

    Did you know that despite the high value of leisure vehicles, only 13% of motorhomes and 6% of campervans have trackers installed? According to research by Trackershop, the security gap doesn’t stop there: 54% of motorhomes and 45% of campervans lack even a basic alarm system.

    Since the pandemic, the UK has seen a massive surge in motorhome sales, with campervan ownership rising by 20%. We are now in the height of the season, and unfortunately, theft is at an all-time high. For new owners, protecting your asset has never been more critical.

    Why Motorhomes are High-Value Targets

    It’s a simple case of supply and demand. Much like the high-end performance car market, motorhomes are prime targets for organized gangs. In 2020 alone, one tracking specialist recovered over £1 million worth of stolen vehicles.

    Modern thieves don’t always need your keys. With computer technology underpinning modern ignitions, tech-savvy criminals can often bypass security systems in seconds. Without a tracking device, the chances of recovery are slim, especially since thieves quickly strip or alter identity markings once the vehicle is hidden.

    How to Protect Your Pride and Joy

    Whether you own a modern marvel or a classic Hymer, security should be a top priority. Here are our essential tips for keeping your vehicle safe:

    1. The Golden Rule: Keys

    It sounds simple, but never leave your keys in an unattended vehicle. Doing so could invalidate your insurance, leaving you completely uncovered for loss or damage due to theft.

    2. Physical Security Locks

    Thieves are opportunists; if a job looks like it will take too long, they’ll move on.

    • For Classic Owners: Standard locks on vintage vans are often easily picked. We recommend upgrading to a van lock plate or a deadlock to bolster your defences while maintaining that classic look.

    3. Electronic Immobilisers & Alarms

    Most modern motorhomes feature remote immobilisers, but classic owners aren’t always so lucky.

    • Immobilisers: These prevent the engine from starting without the correct electronic “handshake.”
    • Thatcham Category 1 Alarms: We highly recommend a Thatcham-approved system. A loud, audible deterrent is often the best way to scare off a thief before they get inside.

    4. GPS Tracking Systems

    Once reserved for supercars, GPS technology is now highly affordable. A tracker allows you to monitor your vehicle’s location via your phone in real-time.

    • Recovery Rates: Some systems offer up to a 95% recovery rate.
    • Storage Tip: If you keep your vehicle in a storage facility, a tracker provides a “virtual eye.” If you’re storing it for long periods, consider a solar battery charger to ensure the tracker doesn’t drain your battery.

    5. The “Safe Box” Mentality

    If a thief sees a tablet, sat-nav, or even a charging cable on the dashboard, they assume there is something worth stealing inside. Keep your living area tidy, hide your valuables in a built-in safe, or take them with you when you leave the vehicle.

    Two modern Volkswagen campervans, one yellow and one silver, with pop-top roofs extended, parked by a scenic lake with hills in the background, representing campervan and motorhome insurance.
    Your adventure starts here. VINTTRO Cover understands the freedom of the open road and the value of your home on wheels, providing specialist insurance for your campervan or motorhome.

    Insurance: What You Need to Know

    Do I need insurance while in storage?

    Yes. Even if your vehicle is SORNed (off the road), it remains a target for fire, flood and theft. At VINTTRO, we always advise clients to maintain insurance during storage to cover incidents that fall outside a facility’s standard trade policy.

    Do I need specialist insurance to drive?

    Standard car insurance is not sufficient. Motorhome insurance is specialised because it covers the unique way you use the vehicle, for cooking, sleeping, and carrying personal contents.

    A Note on Licences: * Passed before 1997: You likely have a C1 entitlement, allowing you to drive vehicles up to 7,500kg.

    • Passed after 1997: You are generally limited to 3,500kg (plus a 750kg trailer). Always check your licence before buying or renting!

    Get Covered with Vint-tro

    At VINTTRO Cover, we want you to focus on the adventure, not the “what ifs.” Whether you’re a classic Hymer enthusiast or a new campervan convert, our team is here to help you find the right protection for your vehicle and its contents.

    Ready for peace of mind? Speak to the team at VINTTRO Cover today on 0333 4042 007.

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              Membership Application

              You may already be a member, all clients that have used our services in the past are automatically enrolled as a VINTTRO member. Please fill in your details below and tell us a little bit about your interests in the comments box.












                Business Insurance Enquiry

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                  Vehicle Check Form

                  Please complete all sections where possible.

                    Your Email:

                    Vehicle Reg:

                    Current Mileage:

                    Oil Level OK:

                    Coolant Level OK:

                    Wiper Fluid OK:

                    Wiper Condition Good:

                    Lights Ok:

                    Horn Ok:

                    Tyre Condition Good:

                    Tyre Pressure OK:

                    First Aid Kit:

                    Any warning lights?NoYes

                    Any Damage?NoYes

                    Any additional information (optional):

                    VINTTRO will use your information to contact you regarding this service request. Please note we record telephone calls for training and monitoring purposes.