Net Zero News: Motability & Kia Secure EV Funding for UK Net-Zero

Welcome to Net Zero News, where we bring you the latest developments driving the UK’s transition to a net-zero future. In a significant step towards more accessible sustainable transport, Motability Operations and Kia Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore affordable, inclusive mobility solutions that could reshape accessible transport for disabled people across the UK.

Net Zero News can reveal that the MoU was formalised this week at a joint event in London, involving senior executives from Motability Operations and Kia Europe. Under the agreement, both organisations will collaborate on electric vehicle adaptations, innovative financing models and trials of new mobility services aimed at reducing barriers to zero-emission transport for millions of eligible drivers and passengers.

Motability Operations, which manages one of the world’s largest vehicle leasing schemes for disabled people, will draw on its unrivalled experience in vehicle adaptations. Kia, renowned for its expanding electric vehicle (EV) portfolio, will contribute technological know-how in EV powertrains, battery management and charging infrastructure. Together, they plan to co-design purpose-built solutions tailored to diverse physical needs.

The initiative will explore a range of strategic developments, from low-cost EV leasing packages to modular adaptation kits that can be fitted quickly at scale. Net Zero News understands this also forms part of wider trials on digital service platforms, real-time vehicle tracking and remote diagnostics to optimise fleet utilisation and maintenance, all aligned with industry best practice for sustainable mobility.

This collaboration matters because transport accounts for around a third of the UK’s domestic greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on zero-emission vehicles and inclusive design, the partnership could unlock significant CO₂ reductions while ensuring that people with disabilities are not left behind in the transition to a cleaner transport system.

Expected outcomes include a projected reduction of up to 5,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually in early pilot regions, improved air quality in urban centres and increased adoption of EVs among traditionally under-served communities. Net Zero News understands that these pilots will also create new apprenticeship opportunities in EV conversion and servicing, boosting local skills and employment.

Funding and delivery will be coordinated through Motability Operations’ existing infrastructure, supplemented by Kia’s investment in research and development. While precise figures remain confidential, sources indicate that a multi-million-pound commitment will be deployed over the next three years to support vehicle procurement, adaptation tooling and software development.

The partnership will engage the Department for Transport, which has previously backed inclusive transport initiatives through its Accessible Transport Programme. Local authorities in several metropolitan areas have also expressed interest in hosting demonstration sites, offering charging hubs and adaptation workshops to test vehicles in real-world conditions.

Net Zero News understands this forms part of the UK government’s broader Road to Zero Strategy and the Transport Decarbonisation Plan, both of which emphasise accessibility and equity in the shift to low-carbon transport. The MoU aligns with the UK’s net-zero by 2050 target and complements initiatives under the Inclusive Transport Strategy, launched last year to improve journeys for disabled passengers.

At a regional level, the partnership could support mayoral Combined Authorities as they strive to meet their carbon budgets. It also dovetails with efforts by devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales, where inclusive transport and climate resilience are high priorities, and integrates with funding streams from Innovate UK and the Connected and Automated Mobility programme.

Communities stand to benefit from more reliable and affordable transport options. Disabled drivers will gain greater choice and autonomy through subscription-style EV leasing, while healthcare and social care organisations could reduce their operating emissions. Private hire and taxi firms that serve passengers with mobility needs may also adopt new adapted EV models, enhancing fleet modernisation.

Challenges remain around scaling production of bespoke adaptations and ensuring a robust charging infrastructure in rural areas. However, the partnership’s focus on modular design aims to lower costs and speed up deployment. Innovations tested through this MoU could set new industry standards for accessible electric mobility, driving wider adoption across the automotive sector.

Looking ahead, both Motability Operations and Kia plan to launch initial field trials in summer 2025, followed by a broader roll-out in late 2026. Net Zero News will track progress as they publish technical reports and user feedback, offering insights into performance, emissions savings and social impact as this pioneering collaboration moves from concept to reality.

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