PB Wheels, a subsidiary of PB Fintech group, has expanded its operations to include preventive and comprehensive car maintenance services, moving beyond its original focus on motor insurance claims facilitation. The expansion enables the company to offer services including repairs, servicing, preventive maintenance and additional car care solutions across India.
The company currently operates in more than 160 cities and has processed over 20,000 insurance claims worth Rs 30 crore in recent years. The new services will be delivered through PB Wheels' network of multi-brand garages using an asset-light business model.
According to Sarbvir Singh, Joint Group CEO of PB Fintech, the expansion aims to create a comprehensive car care ecosystem that benefits both vehicle owners and insurance companies. The strategy positions PB Wheels to become a preferred network partner for the motor insurance industry while reducing claim incidents through regular vehicle maintenance.
The expansion aligns with PB Fintech's broader strategy to provide complete support throughout the car ownership lifecycle. PB Fintech, which operates the insurance marketplace Policybazaar, seeks to integrate insurance coverage with ongoing vehicle maintenance through its group companies.
PB Wheels plans to use technology and data analytics to streamline the car servicing experience. The company's asset-light approach involves partnering with existing multi-brand garages rather than establishing company-owned service centers. This model allows for rapid expansion while maintaining service quality standards.
The car care services market in India has seen increased activity as companies attempt to organize the fragmented automotive aftermarket sector. Traditional challenges in this space include inconsistent service quality, lack of transparency in pricing, and difficulty in finding reliable service providers.
For insurance companies, the expansion could lead to operational benefits. Vehicles that receive regular maintenance typically generate fewer insurance claims, potentially reducing costs for insurers. This preventive approach to vehicle care may also result in lower premiums for consumers who maintain their vehicles regularly.
The company states it will continue expanding its geographic presence and service offerings. Future plans include leveraging technology to improve service transparency and predictability for car owners across India.
PB Fintech's move into car maintenance services represents a diversification from its core insurance aggregation business. The company, which is publicly listed, has been exploring adjacent business opportunities to expand its role in the financial services and automotive sectors.