Beyond Uber
This car-sharing service promises to save Uber-less Austin commuters
Uber and Lyft are out. Rental cars are at a premium — thank you, supply and demand — which means that Austin’s hidden car-sharing gem is now more appealing than ever. Perhaps you’ve seen car2go’s white and blue Smart cars zipping around town, and you’re likely to notice them even more now.
With the failure of Prop 1, all new drivers will have to undergo fingerprint-based background checks. This has prompted Uber and Lyft’s departure from the city, but car2go’s fun and easy car-sharing system is here to stay.
Offering one-way-trips on demand, straight from an app on your phone, car2go gives drivers the flexibility to get from point A to point B without a lot of the hassle of other mobility services. And unlike some of the other ride-sharing options in town, car2go has been in the Capital City since 2009, when the company opened its first North American location and North American headquarters right here.
Simply download the car2go app on your phone, view nearby cars through the app — grab one right away or reserve it up to 30 minutes before you need it — unlock the car using the app, grab the keys, and go. There’s no time limit, and when you’re done with your trip to the sushi bar, strolling around Zilker Park, or grabbing goodies at your favorite farmers market, just park it within the operating area in town, or “Home Area,” and walk away.
Better yet, members can access car2go vehicles in all 13 North American locations without paying extra membership fees. Never pay for parking, and enjoy the freedom of pricing that’s surge free: You’ll never be caught by surprise when you pick up a car.
There’s a one-time membership fee of only $35, but right now new members can use the promo code C2G15 to receive a free membership and 15 minutes of free drive time. After that, using a car2go vehicle only costs you $0.41 per minute, which is perfect for that last mile home, running errands, or even a fun day trip. They don’t count your mileage, and you don’t have to worry about filling the car up when you’re done. Talk about easy.