Already popular in Europe due to its green reputation and functionality, it is estimated that every car-share takes 7-10 cars off the road. Reducing car usage of individuals by up to 50 per cent.
There are currently three companies who offer this service in Melbourne, Flexicar being one. Joining Flexicar involves a membership fee, which allows you to hire a car for as little as one hour - or up to days at a time. Flexicar have about 80 cars, all of which live on Melbourne's streets in specially reserved car parks, ready for pick up when you are. The prices are comparable to traditional car renting but include petrol, registration, maintenance, designated parking and cleaning.
Flexicar have a variety of pre-paid plans which you can choose according to how often you expect to drive, and how many km's are covered.
Visit the Flexicar website for a map of cars available and to join up.
Another company with comparable costs is Go Get Car Share. GoGet are still in the process of expanding and don't yet have as many cars in the Moreland area, but share car parking spots with Flexicar.
Additionally Charter Drive have a program called MyCarClub.com.au. They offer a range of business charter options for corporate car sharing, as well as offering low emission cars. Currently their cars are only available in four locations in the Melbourne CBD.
Car pooling
And if you already have a car, maybe car pooling is worth thinking about. Sharing a lift to work or university means less cars on the road, less fuel and parking costs and less wear and tear on your vehicle. Carpooling is a way to save money and significantly reduce pollution and traffic congestion.
You don't even have to talk to your neighbours or work colleagues to determine who lives near by, there is a website which does it for you! Simply go to OzCarPool and register your information with them. They will then put you in touch with other people in your area that commute at the same time as you each day. Once you get a match all you need to do is contact that person via email to start your car pool group. And the bigger the group the bigger the saving, and maybe even a few minutes extra sleep-in!
Visit Oz Car Pool - Australia's Free Car Pool Website.
