SBI Insurance Launches Hail Alert Email Service Using Proprietary Hail Disaster Prediction Model—A First for Direct Insurers
SBI Insurance has launched a hail alert email service for auto insurance policyholders, utilizing a proprietary hail disaster prediction model—the first of its kind among direct insurance companies.
SBI Insurance Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and President: Takashi Ono; hereinafter "SBI Insurance") has independently developed a hail disaster prediction model (hereinafter "the Model"), a first for a direct insurer*1. Starting March 30, the company will begin sending hail alert emails to its auto insurance policyholders*2.
Recognizing that an insurance company's mission extends beyond providing compensation to include preventing and mitigating damage, SBI Insurance has conducted two Proof of Concept (PoC) trials since March 2025. Following the confirmation of sufficient prediction accuracy, the company is now launching this service to support disaster prevention and mitigation efforts against hail.
■ Past press releases regarding the PoC can be found here: https://www.sbisonpo.co.jp/company/news/2025/0425.html
In recent years, the frequency and severity of hail disasters due to global warming have led to an increase in vehicle damage. While hail is difficult to predict, taking measures such as moving vehicles to covered parking or using vehicle body covers can help prevent or reduce damage.
SBI Insurance has been working to build a hail prediction model to alert customers in advance. Since March 2025, the company has conducted PoCs to develop and refine the model using historical auto insurance claim data and meteorological big data.
With the verification for practical application complete, starting March 30, the company will use daily weather information to predict the likelihood of hail by municipality for the following day and send email alerts to policyholders residing in areas where hail is forecasted.
In addition, in partnership with Relo Club, Ltd. and AUTOLAB, Inc., SBI Insurance will offer custom-made body covers provided by AUTOLAB at a special price to its auto insurance policyholders. By creating an environment that facilitates damage prevention, the company aims to support customers in enjoying their car life with peace of mind.
SBI Insurance remains committed to creating value that satisfies customers through the appropriate use of digital technology in its products and services.
◆ Special Discount on Body Covers for SBI Insurance Policyholders*3
Custom-made body covers provided by AUTOLAB are available at a special price for SBI Insurance policyholders. These covers protect against hail and snow, as well as paint damage from summer sunlight, rising interior temperatures, and frozen doors or glass in winter.
Special Discount Link: https://www.club-off.com/contents/files/bra/common/topics/sbisonpo/bodycover/index.html
*1 As of March 30, 2026, based on SBI Insurance research.
*2 Alerts are sent only for days and regions where hail is predicted by the Model.
*3 Subject to change or termination without notice.
◆ About SBI Insurance
SBI Insurance is a member of the SBI Insurance Group, which operates a comprehensive insurance business. Under the corporate philosophy of "New Insurance for a New Era," the company delivers peace of mind and safety by providing cutting-edge insurance products and top-tier services.