City of Austin launches nation’s largest car-sharing program
The City of Austin and German automaker Daimler AG have partnered up to launch the nation’s largest car-sharing program featuring a fleet of 200 fuel-efficient Smart cars, targeted initially for use by the City of Austin’s 13,000 employees.
Austin's fleet of Smart cars on display at the Long Center
The car2go program, introduced successfully in Ulm, Germany, makes its first appearance in North America with Austin as the test model. More Smart cars plan to be rolled out in the city after the pilot’s duration. Mayor Lee Leffingwell stressed the opportunity to demonstrate a better transit alternative, while not sacrificing convenience, as a priority. Ongoing challenges with urban growth, mobility and environmental sustainability make the program’s arrival opportune.
Driving routes, mileage, vehicle usage and emissions among city employees will be tracked and evaluated to determine if there are opportunities for vehicle sharing in departments and within building complexes. Director of Transportation, Robert Spillar, is interested in gauging which types of commutes employees are taking as a way to assess driving patterns. “The goal is to change commuter habits,” he said. “And it is more economically advantageous to take short trips as opposed to driving all day.”
The program supplements Austin CarShare, in place since 2006. The nonprofit membership-based organization offers seven vehicles including hybrid cars and a pickup. Councilmember Chris Riley, who commutes via bike, has benefited greatly from Austin CarShare and is excited to see the two programs coexist. “Car share made it easier for me to get around,” he said. “I am hopeful these programs can help significantly reduce vehicle miles,” he said.
The City Council and the City of Austin has long been focused upon becoming the recognized leader in environmental stewardship, energy conservation and fuel efficiency, and the Car2Go program is just another way our community can lead the way for “going green.”
Photo credit: Mary Tuma
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