Motability has announced that it will be making significant changes to its service next week in a move that could impact thousands of drivers.
The Drive Smart scheme helps motorists see their habits behind the wheel, which encourages safer driving with the intention of reducing accidents.
Motability launched the service in September 2025 and combined a smartphone app and an in-car device to monitor behaviours.
Drivers were then given a weekly score, with high-risk motorists potentially being removed from the lease scheme if they fail to travel in a safer manner.
However, Motability stated that it would be pausing the Drive Smart measures following "concerns" from some motorists.
It reported that drivers had a negative experience when using the app, despite the intention of the service being to improve motoring ability and make roads safer.
Motability said it needed the scheme to feel "fair, clear and right for our customers", adding that it needs to ensure the experience is suitable for drivers.
The service added: "Insurance is one of the biggest costs in every lease. And a rising number of insurance claims means it has increased significantly in recent years.
Motability has confirmed that major changes to its services will take place next week
| MOTABILITY"Telematics helps to reduce accidents, and we've already seen this with Drive Smart, which keeps the roads safer and costs down for everyone."
From Friday, May 22, 2026, Motability said it would start removing customers from Drive Smart, unless they choose to continue using it.
For those who want to opt out of the scheme, they do not need to do anything, and they will be removed from the Drive Smart system.
Motability also confirmed new measures being introduced on Thursday, May 14, allowing them to remove the Drive Smart wedge from their vehicle, informing drivers to "keep it safe".
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Motorists will be able to remain involved with the Drive Smart scheme
|MOTABILITY
Motorists will be able to redeem and spend any rewards before May 22, 2026, delete the Drive Smart app and ignore any app notifications while Motability makes the changes.
Any drivers who have a Drive Smart box fitted in their vehicle also don't need to act, with the device set to be deactivated from May 22.
Some Drive Smart users have signalled their intention to remain included in the service, noting that it provides reassurance to their loved ones that they are safe behind the wheel.
Those motorists will need to inform Motability of their desire to stay on the Drive Smart scheme by May 21 by filling out a form in their emails.
Motability said it would speak with members to understand what changes need to be made to improve the Drive Smart service
|MOTABILITY
Motability confirmed that it will work with members to understand what changes need to be made to the Drive Smart scheme to ensure its success.
Customers will be invited to join a new research group in its Headlight Community to "understand customer needs and where we need to improve".
It stated: "We'll only bring Drive Smart back when we're confident the experience better meets your needs.
"When it does return, we'll give you plenty of notice if it will still apply to your lease."