The Motability Scheme was started in 1977 by the late Lord Goodman and Lord Sterling. It enjoyed all-party support and aimed to help disabled people and their families with personal mobility. Since 1978, we have operated the Motability Scheme and delivered mobility to over four million customers across the UK. Our affordable, worry-free package has helped to keep thousands of people moving.
Motability, the national charity, oversees the Scheme, which is delivered by Motability Operations.
1978 – 1990
Motability Operations was established to run the Scheme, overseen by the registered Motability charity. Now, disabled people could exchange their mobility allowance to lease a Motability Scheme vehicle. Participating manufacturers included British Leyland [Rover], Chrysler [Peugeot], Ford and Vauxhall.
During the 80s, the Motability Scheme became more affordable, as the Government introduced changes such as removing car tax for leased cars.