The Motability Scheme means some people can get money off a car, or get one completely free
The company behind the transformative Motability Scheme has revealed that there are now 815,000 customers across the UK, utilising the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme. Both schemes, run by Motability Operations, are identical, with the name varying depending on the region.
The scheme allows people receiving a disability benefit, with an award for the higher or enhanced rate of the mobility component, to allocate some or all of their payment towards leasing a new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair.
The new summer price list for leasing packages has recently been released on the Motability Scheme website, showcasing over 840 vehicles available for selection. people receiving benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) and Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) are eligible to join the scheme.
A comprehensive list of qualifying benefits and required award level can be found on the Motability website. In addition to a new vehicle, customers also receive insurance, breakdown assistance, servicing, maintenance, tyres and windscreen repairs as part of the package, reports the Daily Record.
Lisa Thomas, chief customer officer of Motability Operations, which runs the Motability Scheme, commented on the new price list launch: “The Motability Scheme connects disabled people to lifechanging freedom and independence. Not only does it help to connect people to the world around them, but it also opens up greater opportunities, with Scheme customers able to work an additional two days a week on average.
“Drivers across the whole of the UK are experiencing rising motoring costs due to rising inflation, insurance and the impact of the shift to electric vehicles. We continue to work hard with manufacturers and partners to provide our customers with value and choice.”
When selecting a car or wheelchair-accessible vehicle through the scheme, it’s crucial to note that while some options require just part or all of the mobility award payment, many necessitate an upfront fee ranging from £100 to £2,000.
What else is included in the lease?
You will get a brand-new vehicle, and a full package which includes:
- Insurance
- Servicing and maintenance
- Full RAC breakdown assistance
- Yearly tax
- Three drivers – you can change these whenever you like
- Kwik Fit replacement tyres
- Windscreen repair or replacement
- 60,000 mileage allowance over three years, or 100,000 for WAVWheelchair Accessible Vehicles
- Many adaptations at no extra cost
Full details on the Motability Scheme can be found on the website here.
Here’s a brief rundown on the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme and the process for exchanging all or part of your mobility payment for a vehicle lease.
Applying to lease a vehicle for yourself
You can apply to lease a vehicle yourself if you meet all of the following:
- You get the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment or the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment
- You are 16 or over
- You are able to manage your own payments.
Applying to lease a vehicle on someone’s behalf
You may be able to apply to lease a vehicle on behalf of someone else.
This might be an option if you’re either:
- A parent or guardian of a child receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment
- An appointee for someone who is receiving the higher rate of the mobility component of Child Disability Payment or enhanced rate of the mobility component of Adult Disability Payment
How to apply
To apply to lease a vehicle using the scheme, go to the Motability website where you can:
- Choose a vehicle
- Find a dealership
When visiting a dealership, you need to present your certificate of entitlement.