Motability Car Adaptations: Tailor Your New KGM to Fit Your Needs
Choosing a KGM vehicle through the Motability Scheme offers disabled drivers greater independence, comfort, and confidence on the road. To make your driving or travel experience truly seamless, the right adaptations can help tailor your new car to your specific mobility needs, whether you're behind the wheel or riding as a passenger.
Motability Adaptations can be split into 3 types:
- Adaptations to help you drive
- Adaptations to help you get in and out of the car
- Adaptations to help you store equipment
Driving Adaptations
If you have limited mobility in your upper or lower body, these adaptations can help you drive more comfortably and safely:
Hand Controls
Ideal for those who find foot pedals challenging. Manual push/pull devices or light-touch electronic accelerators allow you to control speed with your hands.
Steering Aid
A steering ball helps drivers who find it difficult to turn the steering wheel. A separate remote control device will be fitted to operate indicators, windscreen wipers, headlights, etc. These aids allow you to steer the car with one hand and operate the controls with the other. These aids are removable for other drivers who may not need them.
Electronic Accelerators
Designed for drivers with limited mobility in their legs, these systems replace the standard foot pedal with hand-operated controls, often paired with a handbrake.
Access Adaptations
These types of adaptations make it easier to get in and out of the car, whether you’re a driver or a passenger:
Electric Person Hoist
An electric hoist safely lifts you in and out of your vehicle. The sling remains under you while seated, ready for use at the end of your journey. The mount is permanent, but the frame can be removed and stored in the boot.
Swivel Seat
Swivel seats rotate to help you enter and exit the vehicle more easily. Available in manual or motorised versions, they can be fitted to either the driver or passenger side. Note: not all vehicles are compatible with swivel seats.
Side Steps
A side step will help you step up into the driver's or passenger seat of a large car more safely. They come in manual or powered versions and can be stored under the vehicle securely when they’re not being used.
Transfer Plates
A transfer plate is a smooth surface that you can sit on when getting from your wheelchair to the car seat. They fold away until needed again.
Equipment Stowage Adaptations
If you travel with mobility equipment, these adaptations help you store it safely and conveniently:
Car Boot Hoist
If you need to take a wheelchair or scooter with you in the car, a car boot hoist will help lift and move it into your boot. Depending on the size or weight of your wheelchair or scooter, you may need a 2-way or 4-way hoist. It’s important for you to speak with an adaptation specialist to ensure your chosen vehicle has enough boot space and is compatible with the hoist.
Rooftop Stowage
Rooftop stowage is an option if you need to take a manual wheelchair with you, but want to keep your boot space. It’s a box that fits on the roof of your vehicle. An electric hoist lifts the wheelchair from the ground, then manoeuvres it into the rooftop box.
Need Help Choosing Adaptations?
If you're new to vehicle adaptations, we recommend visiting a Driving Mobility Centre. Their specialists can assess your needs and help you find the most suitable adaptations for your lifestyle and your new vehicle.
How Much Do Adaptations Cost?
Many adaptations are available at no extra cost when fitted at the start of your Motability lease. However, more complex or specialist adaptations may incur an additional charge.
If you’re considering adding adaptations during your lease, it’s important to speak directly with the Motability Scheme to confirm compatibility and pricing.
If cost is a concern, the Motability Foundation may be able to offer financial support to help cover the expense of essential adaptations.
Want to Learn More About the Motability Scheme at KGM?
Check out our Motability Scheme Guide and FAQs for everything from eligibility to how to apply, plus answers to the most common questions.