The rush is on to replace people with software in Europe’s insurance industry as cost cutting and automation become increasingly crucial to bolstering earnings. Zurich Insurance Group AG is accelerating its cost reduction program, targeting savings of at least $1 billion by the end of 2018 with changes that will affect about 8,000 jobs. Talanx AG is spending 300 million euros ($341 million) to upgrade technology at its German unit over the next four years after outmoded systems left frustrated customers with expired car registrations.