Co-wheels drives UK to change with lowered prices
Car sharing social enterprise Co-wheels have reduced rates in a bid to make car clubs accessable for more people to help ensure that 15% of the UK's energy will come from renewable sources by 2020
Converting the way commuters consider carbon and transport is not an easy message to convey when they crave convenience over ecology. Even as the UK emerges from its recession, the cost of living crisis is still prevalent. Thankfully social enterprise Co-wheels has slashed its prices; alleviating the pinch for those choosing to kick the car habit.
Since transport equates to over 30% of CO2 emissions, Co-wheels' users are contributing to a more sustainable future, whilst engaging with others within their communities. On average one Co-wheels shared vehicle results in removing around 15 private cars and their emissions from the roads. CEO Pierre Fox said, "as a social enterprise we seek to save our users money and save the environment."
Co-wheels is a ‘pay by the hour’ car club, with cars parked near residential and commercial areas. Members can access cars 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without the cost and hassle of owning one. With reduced hourly rates and mileage charges, members in any one of over 35 locations from Aberdeen to Plymouth can 'own' a car for as little as £3.75 per hour or £17.50 per day. Fuel, tax, maintenance and comprehensive insurance are all included within the fee; meaning all the member need do is drive. Cars are parked in designated parking bays and can be booked in advance or last minute either on-line or over the phone; dependent on area.
With Co-wheels, members only pay for what they use. People who don’t need a car everyday can therefore save money by giving up (or not buying) their own car and using Co-wheels instead. Each member can save up to £1000 per year, based on average running costs detailed by the AA and using a car club car twice a week at £17.50. Additionally, users are reducing carbon emissions by around 10-33% due to less trips and miles travelled as members' behaviour towards journeys changes.
Co-wheels not only support lower income groups by facilitating access to cars by making them more cost-effective, but also save businesses thousands of pounds in subscribing drivers to the co-operative. Currently providing fleet management services for sectors ranging from the NHS to Universities and privately owned businesses.
Car clubs encourage help to develop a culture of resourceful mobility; meaning people think about their transport options and become more judicious in choices about how they are going to get from A to B than car owners. Many car owners jump in the car without thinking about it, whereas opting into a car club means choosing walking, cycling and public transport much more; only using the car club when it really is the best option. They drive less, they pollute less!
e laura@palavermaven.co.uk
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