Andrew Miller, CEO of Motability Operations, the company that runs the Motability Scheme, said:
“Drive Smart was introduced to help reduce accidents, improve driving and, in turn, manage insurance costs, while keeping all the Scheme’s insurance features in place. But we have listened carefully to customer feedback and recognise that the experience was not where it needed to be. That is why we have decided to pause Drive Smart while we work with customers to understand how it can be improved.
“The need to reduce accidents, improve driving behaviour and help to manage insurance costs remains critical for the Scheme’s long-term sustainability, and technology like Drive Smart can play an important role. But it must be clear, easy-to-use and support the independence of the disabled people who rely on the Scheme.”
Background information: Drive Smart
- Drive Smart was introduced to support safer driving, help reduce accidents and manage insurance costs, particularly among higher-risk customer groups.
- However, we have heard clearly from customers that the programme has caused concern and anxiety, particularly around how it might affect how they use their vehicle.
- Based on that feedback, we have taken the decision to pause the rollout of Drive Smart from today.
- This means Drive Smart will no longer be included in new leases or rolled out to further customers who are under 30. Existing customers currently using Drive Smart will be removed from the programme over the coming weeks, but can choose to continue using it and earn rewards by opting in.
- While Drive Smart is paused, we will continue to review the programme, informed by customer feedback and real-world data. We are also creating a new customer panel to ensure customers can help shape how Drive Smart develops.