Ford dealerships are encouraging benefits claimants to take advantage of Motability savings before a new crackdown introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves comes into effect. Trust Ford, a large Ford dealership group, has been running podcast adverts urging buyers to secure vehicles under the current scheme before rules are tightened. The move has drawn criticism that car brands are attempting to exploit the benefits scheme to attract new customers ahead of the changes.
Motability Scheme Changes
The Motability programme allows individuals receiving certain disability benefits to forfeit a portion of those benefits in exchange for a car. However, from July 1, 2026, new rules will exclude high-priced cars from the scheme and end tax exemptions. Additionally, customers will face stricter mileage limits and new tyre replacement policies.
TrustFord Advert
The TrustFord advert states: 'If you, or someone you care for, receives the higher-rate disability living allowance or personal independence payment, you may be eligible for a brand new Ford. And now, from July 1, 2026, major changes will apply to new leases. Choose your next Motability vehicle before this date and our award-winning Motability specialists will be on hand to ensure you beat the changes and keep today's benefits for the next three years.'
Criticism from TaxPayers' Alliance
Callum McGoldrick from the TaxPayers' Alliance stressed that the advert risks 'undermining public confidence' in the Motability scheme, which is already under intense scrutiny. He said: 'Motability is meant to support those with genuine mobility needs, not encourage a last-minute rush before eligibility rules tighten. There should be focus on responsible promotion, not marketing that appears to encourage people to 'beat the changes' at taxpayers' expense.'
Countdown Clock on Website
TrustFord's website features a countdown clock ticking down to the new Motability updates on July 1. The site encourages road users to 'beat the changes' and explains: 'From 1st July 2026, major changes to the Motability Scheme, including VAT/IPT taxes, lower mileage allowances (30k over 3 years), increased excess fees, and new tyre rules, will apply to new leases. TrustFord advises ordering before this date to secure current allowances and benefits.'
Government Response
According to the Telegraph, a Government spokesperson said: 'The scheme is administered independently by Motability Operations, and individual dealers are responsible for their own marketing activity. We are committed to ensuring the scheme continues to deliver for the disabled people it was designed to support, and we're reforming Motability to save the taxpayer £1bn over five years and put money back in people's pockets.' Express.co.uk has contacted Ford and TrustFord for comment.
