IMS to power Drive Smart app for Motability Scheme

IMS has secured a role as telematics solution partner for Motability Operations' Drive Smart programme, a new initiative on the Motability Scheme aimed at customers with a driver under 30 on their lease.

The programme uses smartphone-based telematics and a Bluetooth beacon to record driving behaviour. Motability Operations said Drive Smart forms part of its approach to managing insurance costs and keeping the scheme affordable for disabled people.

Programmeme scope

Drive Smart applies to Motability Scheme customers where at least one driver on the lease is under 30. Motability Operations runs the scheme, which provides vehicle leasing to disabled people who receive a qualifying disability allowance.

The Drive Smart system combines a smartphone app with a discreet Bluetooth beacon. IMS supplies the technology through its IMS One App and the IMS Wedge device.

The system monitors driving habits including speed, braking, cornering and acceleration. It also records mobile-phone distraction.

Motability Operations linked the programme to wider pressure on motoring affordability. It cited rising motoring and insurance costs and referenced inflation and supply-chain pressures.

Telematics approach

IMS said it will provide a smartphone telematics framework for the scheme. It described the IMS One App and IMS Wedge products as the basis for the Drive Smart system.

Telematics programmes typically use a mix of sensors and software to measure driving patterns. Insurers and fleet operators use them to assess risk and to inform pricing and claims processes.

Motability Operations said Drive Smart will provide customers with insights into their driving. The programme also includes educational videos and content for users whose scores are lower.

Cost pressures

Motability Operations connected the programme with its efforts to manage insurance costs for the scheme. It said safer driving and lower accident risk can reduce claims and indemnity costs.

The Motability Scheme includes insurance as part of its vehicle lease package, alongside breakdown cover, tyres and servicing. Motability Operations negotiates with manufacturers and partners on pricing and vehicle choice.

The organisation also highlighted the role the scheme plays for disabled people who depend on vehicle access for work, healthcare and education. It said the scheme supports affordability relative to other options.

Partner comments

"We are thrilled to support Motability - the largest vehicle fleet in the UK - in launching Drive Smart. Our proven IMS One App and IMS Wedge smartphone telematics framework, means this initiative will foster safer driving behaviours among the scheme's younger and less experienced drivers while delivering a seamless and rewarding digital experience for all that participate," said Paul Stacy, CEO, IMS.

Motability Operations described Drive Smart as one element of how it plans for the scheme's future. It framed the programme around affordability and reliability for customers.

"The Scheme is vital to disabled people's independence, and our priority is keeping it affordable and reliable as it evolves. Drive Smart is a practical step in that direction, giving customers helpful insights that can support safer journeys and contribute to managing insurance costs. Partnering with IMS provides us with a proven and flexible telematics solution that aligns with our goals of enhancing safety, sustainability, and customer experience across the Motability Scheme, while helping us manage rising insurance pressures," said Andy Broadfield, Managing Director of Electric & Insurance, Motability.

Company background

IMS operates in the UK, Europe and North America. The company said it has analysed over 40 billion driving miles using telematics data.

Motability Operations runs the Motability Scheme across the UK. The organisation said the scheme supports jobs across the country and contributes to broader economic activity through mobility and access to work.

Motability Operations said Drive Smart will provide ongoing driving behaviour insights and educational content for eligible customers on the scheme.