Motability Adaptations: Enhancing Mobility and Accessibility
Motability adaptations are vehicle modifications designed to help people with disabilities drive, access, or store equipment in vehicles.
The Motability Scheme allows disabled people to lease a Motability vehicle tailored to their needs through adaptations. These changes fall into three categories: access adaptations, driving aids, and stowage solutions, ensuring seamless mobility and independence.
Many adaptations are included at no extra cost when added at the start of a Motability lease.
The Motability Foundation supports people who cannot afford essential adaptations by offering charitable grants for eligible applications. Grants are awarded based on the foundation's policies to assist as many individuals as possible.
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Types of Motability Adaptations
1. Adaptations for Vehicle Access
Adaptations to improve vehicle access make getting in and out of the car easier for drivers and passengers. These solutions are ideal for people with limited mobility or those using wheelchairs.
Swivel Seats:
Swivel seats rotate up to 90 degrees, making entry and exit smoother. These adaptations may be manual or motorized and can include wheelchair-compatible options. Swivel seats suit both driver and passenger sides, depending on vehicle compatibility.
Transfer Plates:
Transfer plates offer a smooth surface to transition from a wheelchair into a vehicle. These foldable plates provide stability and can be stored when not in use.
Electric Hoists:
Electric hoists lift individuals into the car using a fitted sling. These adaptations are useful alternatives to wheelchair-accessible vehicles, allowing passengers to sit in standard car seats.
Side Steps:
Side steps reduce the height between the ground and the vehicle floor. They are suitable for larger vehicles and can be manual or powered. These adaptations enhance safety and ease of access.
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2. Driving Aids
Driving aids help individuals operate a car independently. These adaptations modify standard controls to accommodate specific mobility challenges.
Hand Controls:
Hand controls transfer braking and acceleration from foot pedals to a lever. This adaptation is ideal for people with limited or no leg mobility.
Electronic Accelerators:
Electronic accelerators replace traditional foot controls, requiring minimal effort for acceleration. They often pair with hand-controlled braking systems.
Steering Aids:
Steering aids like steering balls or grips assist with one-handed operation of the wheel. These devices often combine with hand controls to simplify driving.
Remote Control Devices:
Remote control devices allow drivers to manage secondary car functions like indicators, headlights, and wipers without leaving the steering wheel.
Pedal Modifications:
Pedal modifications adjust the position or functionality of pedals. Left-foot accelerators cater to individuals unable to use their right leg, while extended pedals benefit drivers who find conventional pedals hard to reach.
High-Tech Controls:
High-tech solutions integrate electronic braking and acceleration with joystick controls. These are often used in Drive From Wheelchair (DFW) vehicles.
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3. Stowage Solutions
Stowage adaptations make it easier to store wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility equipment in vehicles. These solutions help maintain independence while ensuring ease of travel.
Car Boot Hoists:
Boot hoists lift wheelchairs or mobility scooters into the vehicle’s boot. The hoist type depends on the size and weight of the equipment. Boot hoists can take up significant space, so they work best in larger vehicles.
Rooftop Stowage:
Rooftop stowage adaptations lift and secure manual wheelchairs into a roof box. An electric hoist moves the wheelchair from the ground to the storage compartment. This solution frees up boot space for other items.
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How to Get Motability Adaptations
Step 1: Eligibility and Joining the Scheme
To access adaptations, you must join the Motability Car Scheme. Applicants need a qualifying mobility allowance with at least 12 months remaining. Visit this page to check your eligibility or contact our team for guidance.
Step 2: Consult an Adaptations Installer
Before choosing a vehicle, speak to an adaptations installer. These professionals assess your needs and recommend adaptations compatible with shortlisted vehicles. Not all vehicles support every adaptation, so confirm compatibility before making a decision.
Step 3: Order Your Vehicle and Adaptations
Once you’ve chosen a car, call or visit our Motability dealership to place your order. Some adaptations are available at no extra cost if added at the start of your lease.
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Step 4: Pick Up Your Adapted Vehicle
When the adaptations are ready, we’ll arrange a handover date. The installer ensures all modifications function correctly and meet your mobility needs.
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Funding Adaptations Through the Motability Foundation
The Motability Foundation supports people who cannot afford essential adaptations. Grants are awarded for adaptations that meet specific disability needs. Applications must align with the foundation’s funding priorities, and decisions are based on means testing. If your application is approved, your grant will cover part or all of the adaptation costs.
Grants are also available mid-lease if your needs change. However, additional adaptations may incur costs that you must pay directly to the installer. The foundation does not fund upgrades based on fuel type or vehicle preferences.
Adaptation Costs and Key Considerations
Most Motability adaptations are funded through the Motability Scheme when ordered with your vehicle. Larger or more complex adaptations may require an additional cost. Adding adaptations during your lease is possible, but you must notify Motability and pay associated costs.
The Motability Foundation focuses on cost-effective solutions. Their policies aim to help as many people as possible, ensuring equitable use of charitable resources.
Staying Informed and Supported
Online Accounts:
Use your Motability online account to track applications, manage your lease, and view FAQs. The site opens access to award updates, menu options, and vehicle compatibility details.
Social Channels:
Follow Motability's social channel for updates and insights. The channel shares tips, announcements, and user stories to help you make the most of your adaptations.
Customer Support:
Contact your dealer or adaptation installer for specific requests. Use the Motability Foundation’s grant application process if financial support is needed. Explore the official Motability website and read its guides for detailed information.
These adaptations enable independence and ease of mobility by improving access, driving, and equipment storage. Through the Motability Scheme, people can access funding, expert guidance, and reliable support.
Choose the right vehicle, consult an installer, and explore grant opportunities to maximize your benefits. For more information, contact our Motability dealership today. Whether it’s a swivel seat, rooftop stowage, or advanced driving aids, Wilsons' Motability ensures every adaptation makes life easier and more accessible.
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- Motability Adaptations Driving - Steering-Wheel Mounted Adaptations
- Motability Adaptations - Wheelchair and scooter stowage
- Motability Adaptations - Swivel Seats