In the past, disabled drivers used to have little choice when it came to choosing a suitable car. Nowadays, however, there’s a solution in the form of the Motability Scheme.
In this guide, we explain just how a Motability Scheme works for disabled drivers looking to get behind the wheel of a new car.
What is the Motability scheme?
So, what is the Motability scheme all about and what is a Motability car?
First set up back in 1978, the Motability Scheme allows people with disabilities to use a government-funded allowance to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair.
Nowadays, thousands of dealerships across the UK support the Motability Scheme by providing vehicles especially suited for being driven or seated in by disabled people.
How to get a Motability car
If you want to use the Motability Scheme to get behind the wheel of a new car, then you must meet certain criteria first.
You may be eligible if you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC DLA), the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (ERMC PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP).
You also need to have at least 12 months’ award length remaining. If you meet the relevant criteria, you can apply for the scheme as a driver or passenger, as well as the parent or carer of a child aged three or over.
Now, assuming you're eligible, the Motability Scheme can be broken down into three main steps.
The first step is choosing your vehicle. You’ll want something that suits your needs and, if necessary, can be specially adapted in a way that makes it usable to you. Examples of special adaptions that can be found on cars under the Motability Scheme include wheelchair storage and an easy-release handbrake.
When you’ve decided on a suitable vehicle the next key thing is searching for a dealership which supports the Motability Scheme and offers the car you’re after.
When the right vehicle has been found, your Motability specialist will help you complete the order for leasing the car using an online system run by the organisers of the scheme. When an order is made, you’ll receive an acceptance letter containing your Personal Identification Number, which is essential for collecting your vehicle.
It’s recommended that before you place an order that you check with the dealer about the expected deliver time for the chosen new car. The time you’d need to wait can vary between different models. In some cases, could take up to a few weeks.
What cars can you get on Motability?
A lot of well-established car brands offer cars which can be acquired through the Motability Scheme.
Happily, quite a few mainstream models popular in the UK market from different car categories are within reach. So, whether it’s a small car, crossover, family hatchback or large MPV you’re after, a high-quality choice should be available under Motability.
Here’s a rundown of five of the best new cars you can get under the Motability scheme from a variety of different model categories.
Hyundai i10
Modern, affordable and stylish, the Hyundai i10 is a great choice for any motorist looking for a small car which is simple and effective.
As well as being competitively priced and easy to drive, the i10 is also one of the most practical and best built cars in its class.
Ford Focus
If you’re after as something as large as a family hatchback, then the Ford Focus is one of the more popular choices around.
Its popularity is well justified though, as the Focus is one of the sharpest and best family cars to drive and it has a decent, diverse range of engines and trims meaning there’s something for pretty much everyone.
Citroen C4 Cactus
If you’re interested in getting a compact yet very practical motor with some more unique design quirks, then a car like the C4 Cactus is well worth a closer look.
Combining SUV and hatchback design quirks, the interior is well packaged and there is loads of equipment available from mid-level trims and beyond. The quirky looks aren’t all just for show either, as there are some clever and useful features incorporated such as the ‘Airbumps’ on the doors which add more protection to the sides.
Nissan Qashqai
A more traditional and very popular choice of crossover SUV here in Britain, the Nissan Qashqai offers a tremendous amount to family motorists.
Comfortable and easy to drive, the Qashqai has a very spacious and user-friendly cabin and the range of engines are some of the best found among crossovers available nowadays.
Ford C-MAX
For those interested in getting a MPV under Motability, the Ford C-MAX is an available option which is very versatile.
Based on the superb Ford Focus, the C-MAX MPV has a good, easily-accessible driving position plus a very solid line-up of petrol and diesel engines.
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