Some Motability Facts You May Not Have Known
The Motability Scheme enables individuals who are in receipt of a qualifying mobility allowance to lease a brand-new vehicle every three years. It’s designed to help disabled individuals get mobile and find everyday freedom.
At Vertu Motors, we’re here to help you find your perfect car. In this article, we’ll run through some interesting Motability Scheme facts, which you may not have been aware of. Read on to find out if the Scheme could benefit you, or someone you care for.
You can Lease Hybrid or Electric Vehicles Through Motability
Both hybrid and electric vehicles are available on the Motability Scheme, and at Vertu Motors we have a wide range of models for you to choose from. If you are considering an alternative fuel to diesel or petrol, you will most likely benefit from reduced every day running costs, however it’s worth your while to think about range and charging infrastructure before you commit – would it be feasible for your lifestyle?
A charging point can be installed at your home if you require one – costs will be covered through a government grant and funding from Motability, if it’s your first charge point. However, if it isn’t possible to install a charge point at your home, there are a number of public charging facilities which you can access when you need. Find out more about leasing an electric or hybrid vehicle through Motability.
Many Motability Adaptations Are Free of Charge
Motability vehicles can be adapted in a number of ways to help make driving or travelling easier. There are around 500 modifications available and they generally fall into one of three categories: they can help you drive, help you store your wheelchair or scooter, or help you get into and out of the vehicle.
A large number of these adaptations are available at no additional cost and can be easily fitted at the beginning of the lease. You can view a list of all Motability adaptations online, or speak to one of our experts at your local dealership, who will be able to advise.
Over 90% of Motability Scheme cars don’t have an adaption fitted at delivery - so if you don’t require any modifications that’s absolutely fine.
You Can Take Your Motability Car Abroad
Motability customers are able to use their car to travel within the European Union and to Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, for up to 90 days in any 12-month period.
All you need to do in advance is obtain a Vehicle on Hire certificate (VE103), at least three weeks before you travel. This simply confirms you have permission to take the car abroad, and you can get one by ringing RAC Motability Assist on 0800 731 3310.
The All-Inclusive Package Means No Unexpected Costs
The price of your Motability agreement covers car insurance, servicing and maintenance, breakdown assistance and a 20,000 a year mileage allowance. This means you shouldn't find yourself facing any additional, unexpected costs during the course of your lease.
You Can Still Lease a Vehicle Even if You Don’t Drive
As long as you are eligible for the Motability Scheme, you are able to lease a car with insurance for up to three named drivers. This means that your car can be driven by someone who cares for you, if you can’t or don’t drive yourself. It’s important to note that the disabled person doesn’t always need to be in the vehicle when it’s being used, however all journeys taken must be for the benefit of the Motability customer. This would allow a carer to complete shopping trips alone, but on behalf of the disabled individual for example.
There is No Upper Age Limit for Joining the Motability Scheme
As long as an individual is in receipt of one of the qualifying mobility allowances and has a minimum of 12 months of benefits remaining, they will be able to join the Scheme - there is no upper age limit. Additionally, adults who have a child over the age of three who receives the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or the enhanced mobility component of Personal Independence Payment, are also able to join the Scheme.
New Motability Customers Can Part Exchange
If you’re new to the Motability Scheme and have a vehicle which you’d like to trade in, you can do so with Vertu Motors. Just let a member of our team know when you come and visit us, and they will help organise this.
You Could Receive a Bonus if You Take Care of Your Car
At the end of your lease agreement when you had the car back, Motability will conduct some vehicle checks, and if you’ve kept it well, you could be eligible for a Good Condition Bonus. This is just a way of saying thank you for taking care of your car. The amount you will receive is dependent on lease length - find out more about the Good Condition Bonus.
Disabled Individuals can Learn to Drive from 16
Young people are able to learn to drive in their Motability vehicle, from the age of 16 - if they receive a higher rate mobility allowance. As long as they have a provisional licence and are listed as a permitted driver on the Certificate of Motor Insurance, they’re good to go. Plus, there are no additional insurance policies to worry about as this is already taken care of in the existing Motability cover.
There is also a charitable scheme which can grant Motability customers up to 40 hours of driving tuition. Find out more about learning to drive with Motability.
Hopefully this article has helped to outline some of the fantastic benefits of the Motability Scheme, and how it helps disabled individuals find freedom every day.
If you have any questions about Motability, you can enquire online, contact your local dealer or call us on 0344 649 0191, and a member of our expert team will be more than happy to help.