Nov 21, 2008 3:35 pm US/Central
Stretch Your Dollar: Shared Car Services
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
Americans love the idea of owning a car, but more of us are learning about using reserved car services, or shared cars.
As CBS 2's Anne State reports, it's a way to get around and stretch your dollar.
Nancy Gardner does not own a car, but if she needs one, she'll reserve a
Zipcar.
"You can rent for an hour or five hours or a day or a weekend," Gardner said.
David Noll says he doesn't want the expense of car ownership. He uses a Zipcar for about three hours a week.
"It ends up being about $40," Noll said.
For an occasional driver, the cost starts at $9.25 an hour. To sign up, there's a $25 application fee and an annual fee of $50. Gas and insurance are included.
Manager Toby Ciottone says it's a real deal.
"Our members report saving over $5,000 a year instead of owning a vehicle," Ciottone said.
The Zipcars are parked in 30 neighborhoods in Chicago and Evanston. When Nancy Gardner picks up a car, she swipes her Zipcar id, the car opens, and she's on her way.
Zipcar has a choice of vehicles and even some luxury models. If you go past your reservation time, expect to pay a $50 late fee.
Besides Zipcar, there's another non-profit service in Chicago called
IGO.
CBS 2 viewers who sign up for Zipcar membership between now and Jan. 15, 2009 can type in the promotion code "ZIPCBS" and get $75 in free driving.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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