Adapted Car in the UK
When mobility becomes a challenge, having access to the right vehicle can be life-changing. Whether you’re a driver or a passenger with a disability, getting an adapted car in the UK can open the door to freedom, independence, and flexibility.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- The different disability car options
- How to apply for an adapted vehicle
- Whether to buy, lease, or hire
- What adaptations are available
- How ORA can support your journey
👉 Check Open Road Access Trustpilot Reviews
What Is an Adapted Car?
An adapted car is a vehicle that has been modified to accommodate specific mobility needs. These adaptations can help individuals:
- Drive with hand controls instead of foot pedals
- Transfer internally from a wheelchair to the driver’s seat
- Enter and exit the vehicle using ramps, hoists, or lifts
- Securely travel as a wheelchair passenger
Adapted cars are available in various styles — from small hatchbacks with push/pull hand controls, to larger internal transfer vehicles and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs).
Step 1: Explore Your Disability Car Options
There are three main routes for getting an adapted vehicle in the UK:
1. Hire an Adapted Car (Short or Long Term)
Need flexibility? Companies like ORA offer adapted car hire from 1 day to 1 year. This is ideal if you:
- Only need a vehicle temporarily (e.g., post-surgery or recovery)
- Want to trial a car before buying
- Don’t want to commit to ownership or leasing
Explore our adapted car hire options
2. Lease Through Motability
If you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of DLA, Enhanced PIP, or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, you may be eligible to lease a car through the Motability Scheme.
This includes:
- Choice of a new car every 3–5 years
- Tax, insurance, breakdown cover
- Some adaptations included
Apply via motability.co.uk.
3. Buy An Adapted Car Privately
If you prefer to own your vehicle, you can purchase a new or used adapted vehicle from a specialist dealer or convert your own car through an accredited converter.
You may qualify for VAT relief, charity grants, or local authority funding.
Step 2: Choose the Right Adaptations
Adaptations can be tailored to your exact needs. Some of the most common include:
| Adaptation | Purpose |
| Push/Pull Hand Controls | For drivers who can’t use pedals |
| Left Foot Accelerators | For drivers with right leg weakness |
| Internal Transfer Systems | Transfer from wheelchair to driver seat |
| Swivel Seats | Easier transfers in/out of the car |
| Boot Hoists | Lift scooters or wheelchairs into the boot |
| Wheelchair Ramps/Lifts | For WAVs or passenger access |
| Remote-Controlled Doors | Easier entry for disabled users |
Need help choosing? Talk to our team about custom adaptations.
Step 3: Hire an Adapted Vehicle
If you’re not eligible for Motability or don’t want to buy, hiring is the most flexible and stress-free option.
ORA’s process is simple:
- Enquire online or call our team
- Share your mobility needs
- We recommend a suitable vehicle
- Delivered to your door — fully insured and ready to drive
- Option to book again, or switch vehicle type as your needs change
We offer:
- Adapted cars (with hand controls or left foot accelerators)
- WAVs for passengers
- Internal transfer vehicles
- Minibuses and large vehicles for family or group needs
👉 Check Open Road Access Trustpilot Reviews
Step 4: Consider Funding and Grants
If affordability is a barrier, explore funding options such as:
- Motability grants
- Access to Work (for employment-related travel)
- Local authority schemes
- Charities like The QEF or Family Fund
You may also be eligible for VAT exemptions on purchase or conversion.
Step 5: Try Before You Commit
Many drivers or carers want to test drive or trial a vehicle before committing to ownership or lease.
ORA’s flexible hire services are designed exactly for this. Whether you’re exploring WAVs for a parent, testing hand controls after an injury, or trying a new adaptation style, our team will match you with the right fit.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to get an adapted car in the UK can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you’re just starting out or already know the adaptations you need, there’s a path to greater freedom on the road. From short-term adapted car hire to long-term accessible travel solutions, ORA is here to help you navigate your options with confidence.
