February 21, 2004

By: David Murray
Website: http://www.1st-in-cars.com

Car-sharing company achieves geographic, socio-economic, environmental and technological milestones to become the largest provider in the region

From Capitol Hill to Shady Grove to Columbia Heights, Flexcar members and Metro riders this week are celebrating the one-year anniversary of the car-sharing company’s regional service – an event that means solid success in the young industry. Having grown its D.C., Maryland and Virginia operations to more than 1,600 members and 32 vehicles, Flexcar is the largest and most geographically-diverse service provider in the area, as well as the nation.

Through its partnership with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority – better known as Metro – Flexcar met or surpassed its first-year goals. Highlights include:

* Geographic Diversity – Flexcar has placed 32 vehicles at or near Metro stations in all six jurisdictions in the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area.

* Socio-Economic Diversity – Flexcar serves members from a broad range of backgrounds and has expanded its service to neighborhoods such as Anacostia, New Carrollton and Mt. Pleasant.

* Clean Fuel Commitment – Flexcar was the first car-sharing service provider in the region to offer clean gas-electric hybrid cars, and will add a significant number in the coming months.

* Community Partnerships – In addition to its strong partnership with Metro, Flexcar has partnered with a number of other organizations and agencies to make car-sharing successful, including Washington Parks & People, the Washington National Cathedral, Parsons Transportation, American Public Transportation Association, Historical Society of Washington, Alexandria Ride Share, Commuterpage.com, Arlington Transportation Partners, and North Bethesda Transportation Center.

* Technological Commitment – Flexcar recently added keyless access to its fleet by employing KeyCard technology.

Flexcar’s innovative program provides members with on-demand access to a fleet of environmentally friendly vehicles, including gas-electric hybrid sedans and pick-up trucks, located at or near 20 Metro stations in the D.C. Metro area. Members reserve the vehicles for hourly use with Flexcar covering the cost of the car, gas, parking, insurance and maintenance. Members access the cars via a specially coded Smartcard, and pay hourly or monthly for use of the vehicles. Flexcar does not require security deposits or monthly/annual dues to participate in its program.

Many people can get where they need to go simply by walking, biking or taking Metro, but the reality is that sometimes you just need a car, said Neil Peterson, Flexcar’s president and CEO. That’s why car-sharing is really starting to boom here. Moving into our second year in operation, Flexcar – with the great support of Metro – is fast becoming a part of the community’s infrastructure, making it a perfect complement to public transportation, carpooling and other modes of mobility. Our program makes it possible to have access to a car without the costs of owing, parking and maintaining one.

Looking forward into 2003, Flexcar will increase its size and scope in the region, expecting to add 50 vehicles to the fleet.

Following a successful European model, Flexcar launched its Seattle operations in 2000, and has since won numerous awards and commendations for its program that reduces congestion, air pollution and energy use, while increasing use of public transportation and contributing to sustainable communities. Used in conjunction with public transit, car/vanpools and walking/biking, car-sharing helps individuals meet their transportation needs in an economic and environmentally responsible manner.

Traffic and the environment are big concerns here in D.C. and most people would like to find a way to help, said Jill Frick, general manager of Flexcar’s DC region. We make it easy for people to make a difference without sacrificing the freedom they associate with owning a car. Our studies show that Flexcar members drive fewer miles, take public transportation and are smarter about combining trips. The benefit to the environment is obvious and grows exponentially as the program grows.

About The Author:

David Murray is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cars.com.  Great car accessories and parts plus financing, insurance and leasing tips.