Individuals receiving disability benefits such as PIP (Personal Independence Payment) have been encouraged to find out if they could qualify for a Motability Scheme vehicle. According to the Motability website, some vehicle packages are 45% cheaper than the standard commercial price.
The scheme is open to those who receive a qualifying benefit at the higher rate of a mobility component, like the enhanced rate for PIP, which will provide £77.05 per week following this month's 1.7% benefits increase. The scheme allows you to use your mobility payment towards leasing a new car, a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, or a scooter or powered wheelchair.
Motability packages include insurance, breakdown cover, comprehensive maintenance and servicing, as well as tyre replacement and windscreen repair. Paul Barker, editor at Auto Express, set out the benefits of the programme.
He explained: "The scheme is open to anyone receiving qualifying mobility allowance – it is also available to carers of people with mobility challenges. While it does offer adapted vehicles, the majority of users actually opt for standard cars.
"This means it benefits a broad range of people, from those needing specific mobility solutions to those simply requiring reliable and affordable transport as well as carers and family members."
Mr Barker shared his top 10 recommended Motability vehicles that have the benefit that they have no upfront fees:
1. Hyundai i10
"A compact city car that's easy to manoeuvre and offers impressive fuel efficiency. It's ideal for urban driving and provides a comfortable interior."
PIP weekly cost: £69.25.
2. Kia Picanto
"A stylish city car with a surprisingly spacious interior. It offers good fuel economy and a comfortable ride."
PIP weekly cost: £69.25
3. Citroën e-C3
"An electric supermini providing a range of up to 198 miles on a single charge. It combines comfort with low running costs."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance
4. Fiat 500e
"A retro-styled electric city car with a range suitable for urban commuting. It offers zero-emission driving in a compact package."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance
5. Renault Megane E-Tech
"A family hatchback with a modern design and an electric range of up to 280 miles. It offers a spacious interior and advanced technology."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance
6. Citroën e-Berlingo / Vauxhall Combo Life Electric / Peugeot E-Rifter
"Three closely related electric van-based MPVs offering a huge amount of interior space, low running costs, and a battery range of up to 213 miles. All three can be adapted for wheelchair accessibility."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance
7. Dacia Jogger
"A budget-friendly seven-seater offering ample space and practicality. It's an economical choice for larger families."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance
8. Renault Clio
"A supermini known for its stylish design and well-equipped interior. It provides a comfortable ride and efficient performance."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance
9. Skoda Enyaq
"A mid-size electric SUV offering a range of up to 234 miles. It combines practicality with modern features."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance
10. Skoda Kamiq
"A small SUV that offers comfort, practicality, and quality in a compact package."
PIP weekly cost: Total mobility allowance.
Other benefits that could make you eligible for the Motability Scheme include Adult Disability Payment, Disability Living Allowance, War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement, and Armed Forces Independence Payment. There are currently around 815,000 users enrolled in the scheme across the UK.
