Have you heard of Zipcar? Zipcar is the worlds largest car sharing and car club provider.

Car sharing is bringing about significant green benefits, including:

• Less Cars on The Road - as many car sharers end up ditching their cars
• An Increase in Alternate Modes of Transportation – car sharers tend to bike, walk, and use public transit more
• Transportation Savings – some car sharers are reporting annual auto savings of up to $5,000

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

The process involves registering for a driving plan (monthly commitment or pay-as-you-go), chossing a car, and paying the car sharing fee. A variety of different car models are available, including Hybrids.

FEES & FINE PRINT 

The fees vary from the hourly of $9, or daily rates from $66. For the pay-as-you-go plan, there is an application fee of $25, and an annual fee of $50. Gas, parking, and insurance are all included in the rates. You must be atleast 21, and have been licensed for atleast 1 year, with no major moving violations within the past 3 years. (and a few other requirements) Right now Zipcar is available in 13 cities, including Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle.

KEETSA VERDICT 

Zipcar is aimed at urban dwellers who want to explore alternative means of getting around, but car sharing is a viable option for anyone who wants to drive less and wants to do so in an eco friendly manner.