Zurich Hong Kong backs robot micro-insurance

YAS customers will get scenario-based protection for insured robot incidents.

Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) has partnered with YAS Insurance to offer embedded micro-insurance for robots, as both companies seek to support the wider adoption of AI and robotics across Hong Kong businesses.

Under the agreement, Zurich will develop customised micro-insurance products that will be integrated into YAS's robotics sales and service offerings. 

The coverage is designed to help businesses manage risks associated with deploying robots in different operating environments.

Corporate customers using YAS's robotics solutions will receive scenario-based insurance protection, including cover for repair costs arising from insured incidents involving robots. 

The policies will also provide compensation for deductibles under related insurance policies, helping companies manage repair and operational risks.

The partners said different robotics applications carry varying levels of damage and liability risk. 

Construction-site robots, for example, often operate alongside heavy machinery in complex environments, whilst retail robots interact with customers and navigate crowded public spaces. 

William Lee, co-founder of YAS, said the company is seeing growing adoption of robotics technology across sectors including manufacturing, logistics, retail, construction, hospitality and property management. 

He said the addition of embedded insurance could help businesses adopt robotics with greater confidence.

Lee added that the partnership follows an earlier collaboration between YAS and Zurich involving insurance protection for electric taxi fleets. 

He said the two companies plan to expand their work through projects related to autonomous driving, electric vehicle ecosystems, drones and green finance.