The Motability Scheme:
Evolution, Objectives and Abuse

Background

From the late 1940s until the 1970s, the UK government provided the Invacar, a three-wheeled microcar designed specifically for disabled drivers. These vehicles were supplied free of charge, granting individuals with disabilities greater mobility and independence. However, the introduction of the Motability Scheme in 1977 marked a significant advancement, offering disabled drivers access to conventional cars equipped with necessary adaptations. This innovation ultimately rendered the Invacar obsolete.

Evolution of the Scheme

Following its inception in 1977, the Motability Scheme expanded its offerings to include not only adapted cars, but also scooters, powered wheelchairs, and a wide range of modern vehicle adaptations. This evolution has enabled people with disabilities to enjoy greater freedom of movement and reduced their dependence on others for everyday travel.

The scheme provides guidance on selecting appropriate vehicles and adaptations, as well as financial assistance through grants for individuals unable to cover the total cost of leasing or modifications.

Objectives of the Motability Scheme

The primary aim of the Motability Scheme was to replace unsafe Invacars with accessible and affordable vehicles. By doing so, it sought to empower disabled people with increased independence. As a charity-led leasing model, the scheme was also designed to ensure long-term sustainability.

Defining Disability

A key challenge for the scheme has always been the definition of disability. In its early years, eligibility was more straightforward, as vehicles required extensive modifications to be driven by disabled individuals. During the 1950s to1970s, few companies specialised in adapting standard cars, as such work was both costly and mechanically complex.

As technology improved and controls became more standardised, adapting vehicles became easier, though still expensive. Initially, the vast majority of Motability vehicles were delivered with modifications. Today, however, ONLY TEN percent of the 915,000 Motability cars are modified.

The remaining 90% of customers may still have significant mobility needs e.g. a wheelchair user without needing driving adaptations, travel as passengers driven by carers or family members or find that standard car features (like automatic gearboxes or push-button boots) meet their needs without formal adaptations.

However, my view is that these drivers should use their PIP to lease a car themselves in the same way as with any other leasing arrangement. The minimum basic monthly PIP amounts to £314. The 4 weekly rate can, dependent upon circumstances, be up to an incredible £749.80.  Such a change would therefore not disadvantage them but might discourage unnecessary applications for PIP.  They would also then pay VAT on their leases.

Important Note – Genuine disabled drivers who do need adaptations are excluded from leasing a car as the leasing companies will not allow modifications. Another reason why this scheme is vital for them.

Eligibility and Motivation

The basic objective of the Motability Scheme should focus on providing vehicles to genuinely disabled individuals who require significant modifications. There is concern that the appeal of receiving a brand-new, high-end car motivates many to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) even for mild conditions, including tennis elbow, ADHD and anxiety. Such a major incentive encourages applications from those who do not truly require adapted vehicles.

Summary

Such changes would be fair not harsh and render PIP less attractive.

My own view is that the Motability scheme should revert to only supplying modified vehicles to the genuinely disabled. Allowing only PIP revenues to be transferred to the scheme for this one purpose, would cease this abuse.

We really must create a new self-reliant mind set, not one of total state entitlement.