The Motability Scheme has announced it will immediately stop offering BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Lexus and Alfa Romeo after ministers raised concerns about luxury motoring upgrades
Disability benefit claimants are set to lose access to high-end vehicles such as BMW and Mercedes, following a government call to end taxpayer-funded “luxury motoring upgrades”.
Motability, the taxpayer-subsidised vehicle scheme for disabled individuals, has declared it will “immediately” cease offering BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Lexus and Alfa Romeo models. The organisation insists it must concentrate on cars that “meet disabled peoples’ needs and represent value and purpose”.
This decision could force thousands of claimants currently driving these models to switch brands when they next change vehicles.
BMW expressed to the Telegraph that the decision would be “disappointing” for many of its customers on the scheme, adding: “We will work with Motability to ensure prompt vehicle delivery for any existing orders.”
Mercedes chose not to comment, while Mini, owned by BMW, is not affected, reports the Express.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves had previously voiced concerns that the scheme had strayed into providing a “premium motoring experience” far beyond what most working families can afford.
The revamp comes amidst increasing pressure on Motability due to escalating costs and rising demand.
Last year, the scheme used a record £2.8 billion of taxpayer support, following a surge in applications for Personal Independence Payment ( PIP ).
Under this system, claimants can trade their mobility benefit for a lease package that includes the car, insurance, servicing and breakdown cover.
Most models up to approximately £27,000 require no upfront payment, while more expensive vehicles can cost claimants up to £7,500, which they must provide themselves.
Motability has also come under scrutiny due to concerns that some applicants may have exaggerated their conditions to gain access to the scheme. Some critics have intensified their criticism of the Motability scheme by making false claims that individuals can qualify for ‘free’ cars based solely on conditions such as acne and anxiety.
With 815,000 vehicles on the road, Motability is now the largest fleet operator in Britain and anticipates that half of its vehicles will be manufactured in Britain by 2035.
Andrew Miller, the Chief Executive, defended the programme’s role, stating: “The Motability scheme makes a difference to disabled people’s lives every day and our customers tell us it is a lifeline to freedom and independence.
“Working with government and the automotive sector, we want to do even more to support the economy and our ambitious commitment should put British car manufacturing into top gear.”
Ms Reeves further commented: “Backing British car manufacturing will support thousands of well paid, skilled jobs and is exactly the long-term investment our Modern Industrial Strategy delivers. We are growing the economy to bring down debt, cut NHS waiting lists and cut the cost of living.”
