The Motability Scheme has always been an excellent way for people with a disability to enjoy access to a safe, reliable and affordable vehicle. The government-backed initiative means qualifying recipients can lease a car or a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) from a Motability-accredited dealership in exchange for their weekly Mobility Allowance, making it easier to live a more independent life. And now it's even better, because the £750 New Vehicle Payment can now be sent directly to the dealership to pay towards the cost of your vehicle’s Advance Payment, and Motability have announced that they're extending the incentive for new customers until the end of 2024.
Motability introduced the New Vehicle Payment in February 2022, when it was originally worth £250. It is paid to customers who are either new to the scheme or renewing at the end of their existing vehicle lease within the scheme, with the money transferred to customers after the handover of the new vehicle.
Now that money can be used to directly offset the Motability Advance Payment of a new vehicle, which is paid at the start of the lease.
For those who aren't familiar with the Motability Advance Payment, it's a lump sum payment that's paid directly to the dealership. It's roughly based on the value of the vehicle, and takes into account any adaptations or modifications that are needed. The Advance Payment amount can be significant, and can be a barrier for some individuals who need a certain type of vehicle, but who don't have the funds to pay for it upfront.
This is where the New Vehicle Payment changes come in. It can now be used to reduce the Advance Payment or even eliminate it altogether, as customers now have the option to send all or a part their New Vehicle Payment directly to the dealer.
You can still choose to have the £750 New Vehicle Payment paid straight into your bank account (or a cheque sent out in the post), but if you want to have it sent directly to your dealer to help towards the cost of your Advance Payment, here's how it works.
When you order your vehicle, the Motability Specialist will ask you if you'd like to use the New Vehicle Payment to offset your Advance Payment. If you do, the Specialist and Motability will arrange this to happen before your new car or WAV is ready for handover.
If the Advance Payment for your vehicle is more than £750, you’ll need to pay the difference between the New Vehicle Payment and your Advance Payment amount.
If the Advance Payment for your vehicle is less than £750, Motability will send you the difference within a couple of weeks of you receiving your new vehicle.
If you've already ordered your Motability vehicle and would like to use your New Vehicle Payment to offset your Advance Payment, simply contact your Motability Specialist who will be able to arrange this for you.
Car and WAV customers who are either renewing or new to the Motability Scheme are eligible for the £750 one-time payment when placing an application for a new vehicle with their local Motability dealership.
New To The Scheme Customers - Customers who are new to the Motability Scheme and who place an order in 2023 or 2024, will be eligible for the payment.
Renewing Customers - Everyone who was already a Motability Scheme customer on 31 December 2021 is eligible for the payment. Existing Motability customers may not be ready to place a renewal application, so Motability say that the payment will continue for everyone who was a Motability Scheme customer on this date, regardless of when they order.
So if you were already a customer of the Motability Scheme before 1 January 2022, you’ll be eligible for the payment whenever you get your next vehicle.
This New Vehicle Payment is just one of the many benefits of the Motability Scheme. Other advantages include:
A Brand New Car Every Three Years
When you lease a vehicle through the Motability Scheme, you can swap it for a new one every three years (or five for WAVs). This means you always have access to a reliable and modern vehicle, without having to worry about the costs associated with buying and maintaining a car.
Insurance, Breakdown Cover And Maintenance Included
The cost of insurance, breakdown cover, and maintenance are all included in the payment that's made to the scheme. This means you don't have to worry about unexpected expenses or finding the right insurance policy.
Adaptations And Modifications
If you have specific mobility needs, the scheme can help you get the adaptations and modifications you need to make your vehicle as comfortable and convenient as possible. These can include things like wheelchair hoists, hand controls, and pedal modifications.
No Credit Checks Required
Unlike other leasing schemes, the Motability Scheme doesn't require credit checks. As long as you have a qualifying Mobility Allowance, you're eligible to join the scheme.
A Wide Range Of Vehicles To Choose From
The scheme has a vast range of vehicles to choose from, including small cars, Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and over 40 pure electric models. There's something for everyone, no matter what your needs or preferences are.
Overall, the Motability Scheme is an excellent option for anyone who relies on a car for their mobility. And with the £750 New Vehicle Payment, there's never been a better time to join. So why not explore the options available to you and see how the scheme could help you live a more independent and fulfilling life?
