EDIT: Your update came in while I was typing. Sounds like you’re a bit stuck then.
I do think they have been somewhat obtuse. You could have had the car a few days ago if it was registered on the 18th. The pre delivery inspection and valeting is normally done before the car is registered.
The dealership is having you on and as Kezo says, they’re obviously desperate to achieve either dealer sales targets or the individual salesman’s targets for February (or both)
This exact same thing happened to me last year. They wanted me to collect the car on February 28th on a 73 plate.
I had to escalate the debate to the Sales Manager, who agreed to supply it on March 1st on a 24 plate.
I’m not aware of any fines the dealership has to pay and would suggest it’s a lie.
It’s your call at the end of the day. If you’re the sort of person who doesn’t mind a bit of confrontation and debate, you can hold out for a 25 plate, but your Motability salesman won’t have the authority to do this. You’ll have to put in a call (or visit) the Sales Manager or Dealer Principal.
Option 2 is the easy one. Do nothing, which sees you in your new car next week but on a 74 plate.
Option 3 , you cancel out of principle but have to wait another 5 months for your car, unless there’s some manufacturer stock available.
2024 - BMW i4 Grand Coupe eDrive 35 Sport
2020 - Volvo XC40 T4 Inscription
2017 - Audi Q3 TFSi Sport S-Tronic