Carsharing Success
How successful is car sharing?
Car sharing is attracting increasing numbers of members worldwide and is on the rise in North America; between 2007 and 2009 car sharing in North America grew by 117 per cent. From major metropolitan centres to small rural towns, it’s a transportation option that makes sense for many people: it offers the convenience and flexibility of cooperatively owning a vehicle at a fraction of the cost of private vehicle ownership. It makes it possible for households to use several vehicles without the associated costs of fuel, insurance, maintenance and repairs.
Car sharing can also lead to reduced overall driving; studies show that car share members often become healthier as they chose walking and cycling more often when there isn’t a car sitting in the driveway. In the Cooperative Auto Network’s Social and Environmental Report 2008, 39 per cent of the Coop’s members reported they are overall more active since joining CAN.
Car share members are also likely to forego the purchase of a first or second vehicle; this can translate into up to 20 fewer private vehicles on the road per car share vehicle.
Car sharing's popularity is a testament to the financial benefits it provides in the face of rising fuel costs and a struggling economy. It also reflects changing attitudes towards personal needs and an increased willingness to embrace cooperative vehicle ownership – especially when that vehicle is needed only on an occasional basis. If this sounds good to you, give us a call today: (250) 877-6030 or email us.
