I’m not wanting to be argumentative but I think that Motability does offer value for money. When I thought I might lose my PIP awards I looked at the cost of leasing and whilst the advertised monthly price looks good it is usually on a low mileage and/or a longer term lease. It certainly won’t cover insurance for two drivers, servicing, breakdown cover and tyres for three years. Also, if you have an ‘ordinary’ lease and find the car doesn’t suit you or your condition worsens or you lose the qualifying award then you can’t change the vehicle early or just hand it back. All the above comes at a cost. As has been pointed out there is also the good condition bonus which isn’t ‘normal’. Whilst I do accept that numbers of vehicles have seen a significant rise in their AP, being able to get an electric vehicle with home wallbox fitted for £399 AP is pretty good as the fuel costs are so low and the AP is less than the good condition bonus. Finally, don’t forget that they have also offered transition funding for those losing their entitlement in the DLA to PIP transfer.
Of course it isn’t perfect and could be improved. I do fully understand that people who need larger vehicles and/or major adaptions can find their choice limited and I certainly think that those taking vehicles over 5 years should see a significantly lower AP. I also feel that there should be customer representatives at senior level to put forward suggestions and criticisms at a level where they can influence change.