The Motability scheme now includes many electric vehicles. Here's everything you need to know about getting an EV through Motability.
What Is the Motability Scheme?
The Basics
Motability lets disabled people lease a new car using their mobility allowance:
How it works:
Yes, EVs Are Available on Motability
Growing Selection
The Motability scheme now includes many electric options:
Availability is improving — more models added regularly.
Available Electric Cars
Nil Advance Payment EVs
These cost only your mobility allowance:
| Model | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MG4 SE | 218 miles | Excellent value |
| MG ZS EV | 198 miles | SUV option |
| BYD Dolphin | 194 miles | Compact, efficient |
| Vauxhall Corsa Electric | 222 miles | Familiar brand |
Low Advance Payment EVs (Under £1,000)
| Model | Range | Advance Payment |
|---|---|---|
| MG4 Long Range | 281 miles | ~£500 |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | 305 miles | ~£800 |
| Peugeot e-2008 | 214 miles | ~£900 |
Higher Advance Payment EVs
| Model | Range | Advance Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 240-315 miles | £2,000-3,500 |
| Kia EV6 | 251-328 miles | £2,500-4,000 |
| Tesla Model 3 | 305+ miles | £4,000-6,000 |
| Tesla Model Y | 283-331 miles | £4,000-6,000 |
Note: Advance payments change regularly — check current Motability listings.
What's Included
Standard Benefits
| Included | Details |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Fully comprehensive, you + 2 named drivers |
| Servicing | All scheduled maintenance |
| MOT | Arranged and paid |
| Breakdown cover | RAC or equivalent |
| Replacement tyres | When worn |
| Windscreen repair/replacement | Covered |
| Road tax | Paid (£0 for EVs anyway) |
EV-Specific Inclusions
| Included | Details |
|---|---|
| Home charger | Included with most EVs (subject to survey) |
| Charging cable | Standard Type 2 cable |
| Public charging card | Some dealers provide |
Home Charging Grant
Motability Charger Scheme
Home charger installation is typically included:
Requirements:
If you can't have home charging:
Charging Costs
What You Pay
Unlike fuel, electricity is your cost:
| Charging Location | Cost |
|---|---|
| Home (standard rate) | 24p/kWh |
| Home (EV tariff) | 7-15p/kWh |
| Public slow | 40-50p/kWh |
| Public rapid | 60-80p/kWh |
Estimated Monthly Costs
| Annual Mileage | Home Charging | Public Charging |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 miles | £25-40/month | £80-100/month |
| 8,000 miles | £40-65/month | £130-160/month |
| 10,000 miles | £50-80/month | £160-200/month |
Key point: Home charging significantly cheaper — budget carefully if relying on public chargers.
Adaptations for EVs
Availability
Many EVs can be adapted:
Things to Consider
| Consideration | Notes |
|---|---|
| Floor-mounted battery | May affect some adaptations |
| Charging port location | Consider accessibility for your needs |
| Boot space | If using wheelchair, check dimensions |
| Entry height | SUVs may be easier/harder depending on needs |
Always discuss with: Motability Scheme dealer and adaptation specialist.
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)
Electric WAVs
Growing availability:
Considerations
| Factor | Notes |
|---|---|
| Range | May be reduced after conversion |
| Weight | Conversion adds weight |
| Charging | Same as standard EV |
| Availability | More limited than petrol WAVs |
Pros and Cons for Motability Users
Advantages
| Pro | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Lower running costs | Significant fuel savings |
| Home charger included | Major benefit |
| Quieter | More comfortable journeys |
| Smoother | Easier on passengers |
| ULEZ compliance | No charges in clean air zones |
| Environmental | Lower emissions |
Challenges
| Con | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Charging access | Need off-street parking ideally |
| Range planning | May need to plan longer journeys |
| Charging time | Longer than refuelling |
| Electricity costs | You pay these (unlike fuel savings) |
| Limited adaptations | Some EVs harder to adapt |
Is an EV Right for You?
Good Match If:
✅ You have off-street parking for home charging
✅ Your daily journeys are under 200 miles
✅ You want lower running costs
✅ You prefer quiet, smooth driving
✅ You have access to public chargers nearby
Less Suitable If:
❌ No off-street parking and no nearby public chargers
❌ You drive very long distances frequently
❌ You need specific adaptations that aren't available for EVs
❌ You're uncomfortable with charging technology
How to Apply
Steps
What to Ask the Dealer
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Is a home charger included? | Confirm what's covered |
| What's the real-world range? | WLTP vs actual |
| What adaptations are available? | Specific to your needs |
| How does charging work? | Ensure you understand |
| What happens if I can't charge at home? | Backup plans |
Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are EVs available on Motability? | Yes, growing selection |
| Is a home charger included? | Usually yes |
| What's the cheapest EV option? | MG4 SE (nil advance) |
| Can EVs be adapted? | Yes, many adaptations available |
| Are running costs lower? | Yes, significantly |
| Can I get an electric WAV? | Yes, limited availability |
The Bottom Line
Electric cars are a genuine and growing option on Motability. With home chargers typically included and running costs significantly lower than petrol, they make financial sense for many users.
Key considerations:
The MG4 and MG ZS EV offer nil-advance payment options with good range and the benefit of a 7-year warranty. For longer range or more premium options, budget for an advance payment.
Speak to your Motability dealer about what's available and test drive before committing — EVs feel different, and it's important you're comfortable with the experience.