A Sustainable Future Starts with Shared EVs
Transitioning from gas-powered cars to electric vehicles (EVs) is one of the most impactful ways to reduce emissions and combat climate change. However, for many drivers, the high upfront cost of EV ownership, combined with the complexity of charging and maintenance, can be a significant barrier. Car sharing offers a solution, making EVs accessible without the burdens of ownership.
Zipcar was the first car-sharing provider in the United States to introduce EVs into its shared fleet and bring them to underserved communities. Today, EVs and hybrids make up 25% of Zipcar’s fleet. With years of expertise in operating and maintaining EV fleets, Zipcar helps cities and communities advance their sustainability goals while making greener transportation more equitable.
Expanding EV Access
Many drivers lack the resources or infrastructure to own an EV. According to Zipcar’s 2024 North American Transportation Survey, nearly 80% of members don’t have parking or charging capabilities, and two-thirds cannot afford the costs of EV ownership. Yet, a quarter of all Zipcar trips are in EVs or hybrids, with members typically traveling 80–100 miles per trip.
Equity at the Core
As part of the White House EV Acceleration Challenge, Zipcar committed to placing at least 25% of its EV fleet in disadvantaged communities, often exceeding that target. Currently, more than 40% of its EV fleet serves these communities, with some cities far surpassing the national average:
Los Angeles: 72%
Sacramento: 74%
San Francisco: 68%
Seattle: 48%
Changing Transportation Habits
Zipcar data shows EV access shifts member perceptions and behavior:
77% associate EVs with positive environmental benefits.
65% experienced their first EV drive in a Zipcar.
49% value the quieter driving experience.
In dense urban areas like New York City, Boston, and Chicago—where over 84% of members cannot store an EV—shared electric mobility becomes especially important. In Manhattan, that figure climbs to 94%.
Our Community CarShare in Sacramento
Launched in 2017 in partnership with the City of Sacramento, Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District, the Sacramento Housing Authority, and Breathe California, Zipcar’s Our Community CarShare (OCCS) provides low-cost EV access to underserved residents. This program has enabled more than 63,000 trips, connected residents to jobs, education, and healthcare, and reduced CO₂ emissions by over 2.1 million pounds. OCCS members pay an average of $4 per month, representing a 99% savings compared to car ownership.
Milestones in EV Expansion
2002: Introduced EVs in Boston.
2017: Launched OCCS with 18 EVs.
2022: Piloted Project Edison in Boston and added 800 hybrids to the fleet.
2023: Rolled out EVs nationwide in major cities and integrated into Sacramento’s first Zero-Emission Mobility Hub. Secured a $1.7M grant to expand EVs in underserved New Jersey communities.
2024: Added EVs in Detroit, Austin, Atlanta, Miami, Minneapolis, and Washington DC.
With each expansion, Zipcar is proving that shared EVs are not only a viable alternative to personal car ownership but also a powerful tool for climate action and community mobility. By reducing barriers and increasing access, Zipcar is driving a future where sustainable transportation is within everyone’s reach.
