A major update for the Motability Scheme is due next week, with new pricing for leasing packages set to be published. This change will affect hundreds of thousands of disabled people in the UK who use benefits including PIP (Personal Independence Payment) and ADP (Adult Disability Payment).
With 815,000 customers currently enrolled in the scheme—including around 80,000 in Scotland—this update is expected to be closely watched.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is the Motability Scheme & Who Qualifies
The Motability Scheme (or Accessible Vehicles & Equipment Scheme in Scotland) lets people who receive qualifying disability benefits—at the higher or enhanced rate of the mobility component—lease a new car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair.
Qualifying benefits typically include:
- PIP (higher rate mobility part)
- Adult Disability Payment (ADP) in Scotland
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
To be eligible, you must have at least 12 months remaining on your award, or have an indefinite award. You can apply directly if you meet the criteria, or in some cases someone else (guardian or appointee) can apply on your behalf.
What’s Changing Next Week: Key Details
- The Autumn price list for lease packages will go live on 1 October.
- Motability updates its price list every three months. The current list (for 1 July to 30 September 2025) shows more than 860 vehicles available for lease.
- Advance Payments (one-off top-ups for more expensive or specialty vehicles) may change. These can range from about £100 to £2,000 depending on vehicle type, model, or adaptation.
What’s Included in the Lease Package
When you lease a vehicle under the Motability Scheme, the agreement includes much more than just the vehicle itself. Here’s an outline:
| Item | What is Included |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Full insurance for up to three named drivers |
| Servicing & Maintenance | Regular servicing, repairs, MOTs etc. |
| Breakdown Assistance | Full breakdown cover (e.g. RAC or equivalent) |
| Tyres & Windscreen | Replacement tyres, windscreen repairs or replacement |
| Mileage Allowance | Usually 60,000 miles over three years for standard vehicles; higher for wheelchair-accessible vehicles |
| Adaptations | Many required adaptations included at no extra cost when medically justified |
Why This Update Matters
- Cost of living pressure: With rising costs for fuel, insurance, servicing, and electric vehicle components, many scheme users are concerned about lease affordability.
- Advance Payment shifts: If you’re choosing a vehicle with extra features, larger size, or electric type, the required upfront fee (Advance Payment) could increase or change significantly in the new list.
- Vehicle choice: With over 860 vehicles currently available, the new pricing may shift which models are more affordable or accessible for people with different budgets.
Motability officials have emphasized that they work with manufacturers to try and maintain value and choice, especially during these changing times.
What ADP & PIP Recipients Must Do
- Check your benefit award letter to confirm you have the higher / enhanced rate of mobility component and at least 12 months left.
- Visit the Motability website on or after 1 October to see the new price list and the new Advance Payment amounts.
- If picking a new vehicle, compare models carefully—consider not just the car price but the Advance Payment, insurance costs, and whether required adaptations are included.
The upcoming Motability Scheme update on 1 October will be significant for PIP and ADP claimants. With a quarterly new price list, possible shifts in Advance Payments, and a large number of vehicles available, the change could affect costs, vehicle choices, and lease decisions.
For claimants, preparation will be key: verify eligibility, study the new pricing, compare options, and choose wisely. With the right information, the scheme can continue to offer life-changing mobility, independence, and inclusion for those who rely on it.
FAQs
Will the weekly cost go up for everyone?
Not necessarily. Some users may see little change if their chosen vehicle’s price or Advance Payment remains stable; others choosing more premium or EV models might see for me?
Can someone else apply for me?
Yes. If you’re unable or underage, a guardian, parent, or appointed person can apply on your behalf—so long as eligibility criteria are met (e.g. benefit level, award duration).
What if I can’t afford the Advance Payment?
There may be support options. Motability sometimes works with partners or grants to reduce or waive Advance Payment in eligible cases. In many cases, simpler vehicle models or those without extra features require little or no Advance Payment.