Early 2026 has brought policy reform, Motability shifts and fresh local transport investment. Below are the developments most worth tracking, and what they mean for disabled travellers and mobility providers.
Law reform: powered mobility devices
The Department for Transport is consulting on modernising rules for powered mobility devices (open until 31 March 2026). Key themes include updated terminology, clearer where‑you‑can‑ride rules, a review of speed/weight/age limits, and whether passenger/tandem devices should be permitted.
Safety spotlight: alcohol limits and scooters
Proposed drink‑drive limit changes have renewed attention to the fact that mobility scooter users must still comply with relevant road‑safety rules. Awareness is likely to increase as the broader regulatory review progresses.
Motability: EV transition + tax changes ahead
Motability’s 2026 price lists show EVs becoming more prominent as petrol/diesel models are phased out. From July 2026, VAT and Insurance Premium Tax are expected to apply to Advance Payments (not weekly lease payments), while Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles remain VAT‑exempt. Motability has indicated it will keep a set of vehicles available with no Advance Payment and will continue to support adaptations/grants.
Inclusive transport: regional moves
Combined authorities are investing in inclusive mobility, including new accessible bus fleets and improved demand‑responsive services designed to bridge the gap between home and mainstream public transport.
Innovation + friction points
Innovation is accelerating (smarter mobility vehicles, improved battery reliability). At the same time, EV charging affordability and administration delays (such as Access to Work processing) remain barriers that can undermine independence.
References (clickable)
- DfT consultation: Reviewing the law for powered mobility devices
- GB News: mobility scooter users and drink‑drive rules
- Motability: latest prices for the Motability Scheme
- Motability: powered wheelchair & scooter prices
- Motability: WAV prices
- Disability Rights UK: Motability Q&A on July 2026 tax changes
- MotaClarity: Family Fund mobility support programme closure
- MotaClarity: affordable local EV charging and Motability data
- Public Sector Executive: West Yorkshire accessible bus fleet investment
- Highways News: TfWM upgrades demand‑responsive services
- THIIS: CES 2026 smart mobility vehicle (Strutt ev¹)
- THIIS: Access to Work processing delay report
- MotaClarity: mobility events and exhibitions in 2026