Skip to content

Bicycle insurtech Laka acquired the Luko e-scooter business in France

Bicycle insurer Laka acquired the Luko e-scooter business in France

Laka, a specialist bicycle insurtech, has acquired the Luko e-scooter business in France from Allianz Direct, marking its third acquisition in 18 months.

This move strengthens Laka’s position in the European micromobility insurance market.

The acquisition expands Laka’s coverage to e-scooter users in France, leveraging its experience in bicycle insurance. This aligns with its goal of becoming the leading micromobility insurer in Europe.

E-scooters help cut carbon emissions and ease urban congestion by replacing short car trips. Estimates suggest they could reduce CO2 emissions by up to 12,000 tons annually in major EU cities.

Insurtech Laka, founded in London in 2017, has annonced investment led by Achmea Innovation Fund as part of its strategic move towards fostering smart and sustainable mobility solutions.

Laka, as a European micromobility insurer, offers an array of insurance and circular economy services tailored to e-bike riders, cyclists, and businesses across multiple European countries, including the Netherlands.

Laka is fully licensed under EU regulations, allowing them to operate across various European countries. This ensures compliance with local laws and provides a consistent level of service across borders (see How Technologies Will Shape Autonomous Mobility & Insurance?).

Based in Amsterdam, insurtech positions itself strategically within one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, which supports its mission and business operations.

Bicycle insurer Laka acquired the Luko e-scooter business in France

Allianz Direct sold the e-scooter business as part of its strategy to focus on home and travel insurance in France. The deal builds on Laka’s recent partnership extension with Decathlon in Germany and its earlier acquisitions of French bike insurer Cylantro in 2023 and CoverCloud’s renewal rights in 2024.

We are actively looking to acquire within the micromobility space to bolster our offering and are delighted that Allianz Direct has chosen Laka as the new home for its e-scooter customers. Not only is this an exciting time for Laka’s growth, it gives us the opportunity to respond to market needs in France and offer e-scooter insurance.

Tobias Taupitz, CEO and Co-founder

Laka’s entry into e-scooter insurance marks a step toward diversifying beyond bicycles. CEO Tobias Taupitz emphasized the company’s intent to expand in micromobility, stating that Allianz Direct selecting Laka ensures continuity for e-scooter customers in France.

The EU e-scooter market, valued at $1.2 bn in 2021, is expected to grow due to urbanization, rising demand for micromobility, and government support. Over 20,000 Luko customers will transition to Laka’s insurance with uninterrupted coverage.

Allianz Direct France CEO Fanny Limare-Wolf highlighted Laka’s strong customer service as a key factor in the agreement. She noted that the transaction allows Allianz Direct to refine its focus on home and travel insurance while driving innovation.

Laka’s strong commitment to customer service makes them the ideal partner to ensure a smooth transition for our policyholders. This strategic step allows Allianz Direct to sharpen our focus on home and travel insurance and drive innovation, delivering even greater value to our customers.

Fanny Limare-Wolf, CEO of Allianz Direct France

Beyond acquisitions, Laka continues expanding across Europe through direct-to-consumer sales and partnerships with brands like Decathlon, Gazelle, Brompton, Riese & Müller, Gaya, Tenways, and leasing providers.