Interested in BYD Motability?

With the Motability Scheme, you can swap your Mobility allowance for a lease agreement on a brand-new car.

But what if you’re unsure which Motability car is right for you?

We get it.

Whether it’s your first Motability car or you’re reaching the end of your current lease agreement and thinking about the BYD Motability Scheme, there is a lot to consider when choosing a car.

Plus, with a huge range of manufacturers and vehicles to pick from, there’s more choice than ever and it can be difficult to narrow down all your options.

Are you thinking of electric? Do you have a specific manufacturer in mind? What’s your budget?

Whatever your needs or lifestyle, we can help you decide which Motability car is the best option.

Here are some tips to help you choose your next Motability scheme car.

1. Think about your needs and do your homework

Take your time and do your homework before making any decisions.

Think about your lifestyle and what you really need from your Motability vehicle.

Drivers with disabilities might find it beneficial to incorporate specific features in their vehicles to create a smoother driving experience.

For example, useful features could include:

• Parking sensors, cameras or an automated parking system.
• Electric seats for easy movement of seats.
• Automated car controls such as lights and windscreen wipers.
• Electric tailgate for easy boot access.
• Keyless entry or sliding rear doors for easier access.
• Voice assistant to help operate certain car features.

Some drivers might need adaptations made to their vehicles to help them drive, such as:

• Hand controls for braking or accelerating.
• Electronic accelerators if you have limited mobility in your legs.
• Left foot accelerators.
• Pedal modifications.
• Steering aids.
• Remote control devices fitted to your steering wheel.

You can also have adaptations to help you get in and out of your Motability vehicle. These include:

• Transfer plates.
• Electric hoists.
• Swivel seats.
• Side steps.

2. Set a budget

Your Motability car will be an essential way of carrying out your day-to-day needs, but you don’t want it to drain your bank account either.

Keep a budget in mind so you know what you can afford.

There are usually three pricing options for you to consider:

• Vehicles that cost less than your Mobility allowance (cars with no advance payment).
• Vehicles that cost ALL your Mobility allowance (all that’s needed is to exchange your Mobility allowance).
• Vehicles that cost more than your Mobility allowance (cars that need an advance payment).

3. Check availability

If you’re new to the Motability Scheme, there might not be stock available right away and you may need to wait months for a car to be manufactured, especially if you need any adaptations.  

So make sure you check the availability of the cars that you’re interested in, as you may have to be flexible if you want a car straight away.

If you’re in a hurry, we have some BYD Motability Scheme cars in stock and waiting for you to enquire on.

But if you’re a returning customer, you won’t need to worry too much about this, as you’re usually reminded to look for your next Motability car well in advance of the end of your lease.

4. Test drive your options

Before ordering your car, it’s important to book a test drive and have a good look around it to see if it meets your expectations.

If one test drive isn’t enough, book in another or check with the dealership if you can take an extended test drive in order to get a real feel for the vehicle and work out whether it suits your lifestyle.

5. Real-life tests

When you visit a dealership and have a look around your car of choice, sit inside the vehicle and ask yourself the following questions.

• Is the boot big enough for mobility aids, wheelchairs, etc.?
• How good is the visibility?
• How easy is it to move the seats?
• Can you get in and out of the car easily enough?
• Can you use the controls easily as they are, or do they need to be modified for you?

6. Bring your named drivers

Although a Motability car has been designed or adapted for use by you, you won’t necessarily always be driving the car.

You have the ability to add up to three named drivers to your Motability car insurance, so you can have carers, family or even friends drive your car too.

Considering they might be driving your Motability car just as much as you, it will be important to bring your named drivers with you when you test drive your vehicle options to know what they think and whether it’s also suitable for them.

Why not get a BYD Motability Scheme car?

Did you know that BYD South West is a Motability-approved Dealer?

The BYD ATTO 3 is a fantastic option for your next Motability car. Available with zero advance payment, you don’t need to pay anything upfront to lease the ATTO 3 through Motability.

It’s currently only available in the Comfort trim on the scheme, but you don’t need to worry about losing out on much kit. The higher Design model only adds an electric tailgate, a larger rotary touchscreen, an air purification system and a rhythm-reactive ambient lighting doorknob.

The BYD Dolphin is now available on the BYD Motability Scheme, so if you’re after something a little smaller than the ATTO 3, the BYD Dolphin is a lovely little hatchback.