Editorial Review of
car2go
car2go is an innovative mobility solution redefining individual transportation in rapidly growing urban areas by offering a fleet of several hundred environment-friendly smart vehicles for rent. It provides an innovative mode of “on-demand” transportation which compliments existing public transportation alternatives by bridging the gaps commonly associated with the “first and last mile” of a public transit commute.
car2go is currently operational in four cities: Austin, Texas; Vancouver, British Columbia; Hamburg, Germany; Ulm, Germany. Unlike traditional carsharing programs or car rental companies, car2go is not station-based. car2go vehicles are located throughout the city and can be accessed “on-demand,” or reserved 15 minutes in advance. The members may use the vehicle for as long as they like, without committing to a specific return time or return location. Charges are based on minutes used and include fuel, insurance, parking and maintenance.
The innovation and environmental sustainability of car2go has earned international acclaim: In September 2010, car2go received the “Clean Tech Media Award” in the category of “Mobility” in Berlin. The same month, car2go was recognized by the Austin Chamber of Commerce with the “2010 Greater Austin Business Award” for its positive impact on traffic in the city. In May 2010, car2go was honored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with its prestigious “2010 EPA Clean Air Excellence Award.” Further information on car2go is available at www.car2go.com and www.media.daimler.com/ms/car2go/e.