Mobility rental vehicle service secures funding package for new premises

A Birmingham-based company that rents specially adapted vehicles to people with disabilities is investing in sustainable new premises to accommodate its growing fleet.

Specialist Vehicle Rental, founded by Jagjeet Kudhail in 2009 after recognising a shortage of wheelchair-accessible hire options, now serves thousands of customers nationwide.

With a £422,500 funding package from Lloyds Bank, the business is purchasing a second site in Aldridge, featuring electric vehicle charging points.

It comes as the company expands its electric fleet, having introduced EVs 18 months ago, as part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

The new premises, set to open in October, will allow for more vehicles and is expected to boost turnover by over 30%.

The company has also expanded into Scotland, opening a new Glasgow office in August to better serve Scottish clients

Starting with just one employee and five vehicles, the company has grown to 12 staff, 300 vehicles and 20 drivers.

Jagjeet Kudhail, founder and managing director at Specialist Vehicle Rental, said: “I set out to create Specialist Vehicle Rental after speaking with a family friend whose daughter had a disability. The family had booked a weekend trip which they were forced to cancel because of an unreliable mobility vehicle service, which was so upsetting for them and really highlighted the need for a more dependable solution.

“We believe that those with mobility issues shouldn’t be the last to access comfortable, convenient and planet-friendly transport options. Our business has grown significantly in the past 15 years, and we’re looking forward to another phase of evolution, with sustainability and electric vehicles at the centre of our plans.

The team at Lloyds Bank understand this and has been instrumental in supporting our growth and helping to bring our vision to life. We look forward to seeing the completed premises and using the extra space to continue to expand our range of mobility-friendly electric vehicles.”

Zed Ilyas, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “Specialist Vehicle Rental is a fantastic company, that prides itself on improving the lives of its customers and their families and giving them independence.

By prioritising its sustainability targets and securing a space with electric vehicles in mind, the business is moving towards a more modernised, environmentally friendly model that will mean an even better experience for its customers.

“The team’s commitment to reducing emissions will no doubt also reduce costs, drive innovation and attract new customers – all key factors when fostering growth. We wish Jagjeet and the team the best as they prepare to open their new premises.”