Zego, a UK-based car insurance company specialising in new drivers, says its latest product, Zego Sense, uses real driving data to give fairer prices — rewarding safer drivers with cheaper renewals.
The new policy is especially relevant in Newcastle and surrounding areas like Jesmond, Heaton and Gateshead, where dense urban traffic and high theft rates often inflate insurance quotes for young and newly licensed motorists.
“We know that young drivers in Newcastle are quoted eye-watering prices before they’ve even had a chance to prove themselves,” said Sten Saar, CEO and co-founder of Zego.
“With Zego Sense, we’re using technology to give safe drivers the fair price they deserve — even in high-risk postcodes.”
Newcastle's postcode pricing problem
According to 2024 industry figures, 18-year-olds living in NE4 or NE6 postcodes are commonly quoted £3,500–£6,000 per year for a basic car insurance policy — regardless of how well they actually drive.
Zego’s mission is to fix that.
Zego Sense monitors speed, acceleration, braking and cornering through a smartphone app. Each journey is scored, and safe drivers can unlock lower prices when they renew — a powerful incentive for good habits on the road.
No box, no curfews, just smart insurance
Unlike traditional black box insurance policies, Zego’s black box insurance doesn’t require a hardwired device. The driver just downloads the app, starts driving, and lets the software do the work.
Policy features include:
- App-based black box tech — no physical installation required
- Fully comprehensive cover for social, domestic and commuting use
- No curfews or mileage caps
- Real-time driving feedback via the Zego Sense app
- Discounts based on your actual driving — not your age or location
Zego reports that 92% of Sense drivers saved money at renewal in 2024, showing the model works even in higher-risk urban areas.
“Newcastle is a city with thousands of students, apprentices and young workers who rely on their cars to get to work or uni,” said Saar.
“Our new driver insurance is built for them — it’s flexible, app-based and rewards safe behaviour.”