Innova Hycross: Dealer claims only Toyota insurance covers hybrid parts

Expensive powertrain batteries are becoming increasingly common in India, thanks to Maruti-Toyota hybrids & Electric Vehicles. No insurer who wants to remain in business can exclude these.

BHPian mathlesh recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I am going to get delivery of Hycross soon. The sales guy is saying that it's Toyota Protect insurance only which covers the hybrid battery and related components and no other insurance covers it (He is willing to give this in writing). Can you guys tell me if this is true or not?

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

He's a liar trying to make a quick buck. By law, if you opt for 'comprehensive insurance', it will cover everything in your vehicle. Unless the insurance policy explicitly mentions an exclusion of hybrid battery.

Expensive powertrain batteries are becoming increasingly common in India, thanks to Maruti-Toyota hybrids & Electric Vehicles. No insurer who wants to remain in business can exclude these.

Here's what BHPian haWx had to say on the matter:

If he's willing to put that in writing, then it's probably true, right?

The insurance works differently from the 8-year warranty Toyota provides. In the event of an accident where the battery gets damaged, it will be covered by the insurance and not the warranty.

Here's what BHPian dineshnan had to say on the matter:

Agent who is offering me TATA AIG insurance for appox 78000/- confirmed with me that battery is covered. But clear wording on battery cover is nowhere mentioned in the quotation. He said it's not required as in fact whatever comes factory fitted is always covered under insurance, that's what he said. This is for ZXO. Also only 2 accidental claims allowed in the year.

My initial quote for Toyota protect was 171000/- which is now reduced after discount to 123000/- with unlimited number of claims with battery cover clearly mentioned. I am going ahead with it.

Here's what BHPian libraonof1987 had to say on the matter:

Looks like Toyota and insurance companies are still washing dirty linen on claims and coverage for the Hycross.

Remember this thread?

When I was enquiring for the Hycross, I was told by the SA that he strongly recommends getting the Toyota Protect policy (essentially a regular policy from the usual insurance providers but with the Toyota logo) so that claims on Hybrid tech will be smoother. He mentioned how Hybrid is very complex etc etc. (typical sales talk) and hence, in-house coverage will always no-questions-asked.

Most ASCs these days don't honour cashless claims if the policy is not dealer-issued.

Here's what BHPian shyampsundar had to say on the matter:

Same trick being tried by MG dealers for the ZS EV. There is no way battery is not covered unless it's explicitly mentioned in the policy document.

I went with Acko after confirming with them about battery coverage. Recommend folks do the same and get confirmation from your preferred insurer and not getting ripped off by the dealer.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.