I had a similar experience years ago.
I honestly think its a tick box thing for government pat on the back and criteria
I wanted to get a mini van to put my scooter in with a ramp, Its not like i wanted a top spec car
Since then i put some money aside as well as get a 0% credit card . I cant go much higher than £999
The sad thing is they are sitting on a pile of cash and they still charge lots for AP, Being the only game in town, they have the customer over a barrel
JP