How Do Motability Cars Work? The Motability Scheme Explained

The Motability Scheme is a UK government-backed initiative that enables individuals with disabilities to lease a brand-new car, scooter, or powered wheelchair using their mobility allowance.

The scheme promotes independence and easier of travel by offering a worry-free leasing package that includes insurance, servicing, breakdown cover, home chargepoint installation, and adaptions. In this article, we will explain how the Motability scheme works, who qualifies, and which Kia cars, including electric and hybrid options, are available through it.

View Motability Range and Pricing

The new Kia Sportage on Motability

Who is Eligible for the Motability Scheme?

To qualify for the Motability Scheme, you must receive one of the following mobility allowances and have at least 12 months remaining on your award:

  • Higher Rate Mobility Part of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
  • Higher Rate Mobility Part of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
  • Enhanced Rate Mobility Part of Adult Disability Payment (Scotland)
  • War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS)
  • Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)

Payments are made directly from your allowance provider to Motability, simplifying the process and eliminating the need for monthly payments.

What Are Motability Cars?

Motability cars are vehicles leased through the Scheme and tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals with disabilities. These vehicles can be adapted for easier access, driving, or storage, and come with a comprehensive support package. Kia offers a wide range of models including compact city cars, hybrids, and fully electric vehicles, all available with automatic transmission and advanced safety features.

EV-Specific Considerations for Kia Cars on the Scheme:

Home Charging

If you have off-street parking, the Motability Scheme will arrange the installation of a home charge point as part of your lease. This standard installation is included at no extra cost and makes running an EV simple and convenient.

Public Charging

For those without access to home charging, the scheme provides a bp pulse subscription, giving you access to over 9,000 public charging points across the UK. This ensures you can charge your vehicle wherever you go.

Range and everyday use

Kia’s electric vehicles offer real-world ranges suitable for daily driving from around 256 miles* in the PV5 Passenger to 370 miles* in the EV3, depending on model and conditions. For most drivers, this comfortably covers school runs, commutes, and leisure trips between charges.

Combined with rapid charging capabilities that can charge certain models from 10% to 80% in 43 minutes, Kia EVs are practical, cost-effective, and future-ready for everyday mobility.

Discover Kia EV4

Kia Support for Motability Users

Kia is committed to making driving accessible and stress-free. Through the Motability Scheme, we offer:

  • Optional adaptations: Motability adaptions include swivel seats, transfer plates, and electric hoists to assist with entry and exit, and come at no extra cost.
  • Maintenance plans: Regular servicing and routine repairs will help to keep your Motability car in top condition.
  • Insurance coverage: Fully comprehensive insurance is provided, with up to three named drivers.
  • Breakdown cover: RAC roadside assistance is included for peace of mind.
  • Tyre and windscreen replacement: Tyres and windscreens are included as part of your lease, with replacements provided for wear and tear or accidental damage.
  • Road tax: This is automatically renewed by Kia for the duration of your lease.
  • Mileage allowance: You can drive up to 60,000 miles over a three-year lease.

Understanding the Motability Scheme: A Path to Accessible Driving

The Motability Scheme is a gateway to greater independence and mobility for individuals with disabilities.

With Kia’s diverse range of vehicles, including electric and hybrid options, drivers can enjoy modern, comfortable, and accessible driving experiences tailored to their needs. From home charging, solutions to comprehensive support packages, Kia and the Motability Scheme work together to remove barriers and make driving easier and more enjoyable.

Whether you're new to the scheme or considering an upgrade, exploring Kia’s Motability offerings is a smart step toward enhanced freedom and convenience.

To find out more about the Motability scheme, view our Motability page here, or contact us at Shelly Motors today