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Zipcar Customer Survey Shows Car-Sharing Leads to Car Shedding
Quantitative data proves car-sharing eases urban driving woes and
provides environmental and financial benefits for urban communities
CAMBRIDGE, MA (February 16, 2005) — Drivers who use Zipcar's membership-based car-sharing services as an alternative to owning a car ultimately spend less time behind the wheel and, in many cases, have surrendered ownership of their vehicles or have halted their purchasing decision, according to a new survey by Zipcar, the country's largest car-sharing service. The survey also indicates that each Zipcar introduced into local communities takes over 20 vehicles off the road, reducing urban congestion, emissions and parking demand.
Zipcar recently conducted its opt-in survey of members to determine how access to on-demand Zipcars, for use by the hour or day, has changed their urban experience and driving habits. Among the findings:
- 39% of Zipcar members stated that they would have kept their vehicle, or would have purchased a primary or secondary vehicle if Zipcar's car-sharing service had not been available in their city.
- 43% of members have owned a car within the last five years, but only 11% own one currently.
- Members report they drive approximately 80% less than they did before using car-sharing.
- Members claimed they drove on average approximately 5,295 miles per year prior to joining Zipcar, but only approximately 1,068 miles per year since.
- Members who report a costs savings, state they save on average over $435 per month when compared to car ownership — money that is more likely to be spent locally.
According to Zipcar CEO Scott Griffith, these findings illustrate that Zipcar and car-sharing programs are dramatically changing the way urban residents view owning a vehicle and how much they actually drive. "Zipcar offers the benefits of car ownership without the hassles and costs, such as parking, maintenance, insurance and even gas. With the costs of car ownership on the rise, AAA and others estimate it costs the average American over $700 per month to own and operate a vehicle. For urban residents who don't need a vehicle every day, car-sharing provides a smarter and more feasible alternative to car ownership," he said. "Zipcar members also report their transportation behaviors change, and many turn to other, more efficient means of transportation for the task at hand, such as walking, biking, public transportation, taxi and of course, Zipcar."
For more information or to obtain a copy of the survey, please contact Josh.Gitelson@rfbinder.com
About Zipcar Zipcar was founded in 1999. Since
2000, when Zipcars first hit the road, more than 30,000 consumers and
small business drivers ages 21+ have joined. Zipcar currently operates
more than 400 vehicles in seven states and 21 cities, including Boston,
New York City and Washington, D.C. For a convenient and cost effective
car rental experience or to learn more visit www.zipcar.com.
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