10 signatures reached
To: Parliament
Provide Non-Electric Vehicle Options for Motability Users with Neurological Conditions
We, Autizma and our communities, urge the UK Government to ensure that Motability offers non-electric vehicle (non-EV) options for users with neurological conditions who may be adversely affected by the electromagnetic fields (EMFs) produced by electric vehicles (EVs) and face barriers to accessing charging points.
Key Concerns:
Electric vehicles generate EMFs that pose potential health risks, particularly for individuals with conditions such as epilepsy and sensory processing disorders. Research (e.g., Bioelectromagnetics, Pediatric Neurology, Health Physics Journal) demonstrates that EMFs can disrupt brain activity, increasing the risk of seizures and causing severe sensory overload in vulnerable individuals. Additionally, EV battery malfunctions have resulted in vehicle fires, adding a physical safety risk that may be life-threatening for those unable to respond quickly.
Why is this important?
Access to EV charging points also presents disproportionate challenges to disabled people. While charging infrastructure is growing, many charging points remain inaccessible or located far from residential areas, creating distress and impracticality for disabled individuals and their carers, some of whom are disabled as well. For individuals reliant on personal transportation for medical and daily needs, the journey to a charging station is an unnecessary burden and, in some cases, impossible.
Our Requests:
- Provide Access to Non-EV Options: Ensure that Motability users who are at risk from EMFs, safety issues, and inaccessible charging points can choose non-electric vehicles as an alternative, providing a tailored solution that meets their health, safety, and accessibility needs.
- Invest in Independent Research: Fund and conduct independent studies to assess the impact of EMF exposure from EVs and the feasibility of charging accessibility for those with neurological and physical disabilities. This research should focus on seizure triggers, sensory overload risks, and any safety concerns due to potential battery malfunctions.
- Increase Transparency and Communication: Motability should clearly inform customers about any potential EMF and safety risks associated with EVs, while also providing practical guidance on charging access, so individuals and families with complex needs can make informed decisions about vehicle suitability.
Electric vehicles, while beneficial in many ways, are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For vulnerable populations, the right to choose a vehicle that meets their health, safety, and accessibility requirements is essential. We believe it is imperative that the Government and Motability provide tailored options for all users, ensuring that those with neurological conditions and accessibility needs are not disproportionately impacted or excluded from safe, suitable vehicle access.
Please sign this petition to support inclusivity, transparency, and health safety in Motability services, advocating for all disabled individuals to have vehicle choices that meet their unique needs.
Signatures needed: 10,000 for a government response, 100,000 for consideration for a Parliamentary debate.
This updated draft now emphasizes safety concerns, charging accessibility challenges, and the need for Motability to consider these issues to avoid disproportionately impacting disabled people.
