In the UK about 85% of journeys are made by car. Even with huge investment public transport would only reduce this figure by 5 to 10% over many years. However it has been calculated that car clubs can achieve a 5 to 10% reduction with only 0.5% of the investment in just a few years.

The questions and answers below are to help you take that step and give car clubs a try.



Q who gets the most out of car clubs?

Q how long do I have to book in advance?

Q will the cars be parked near my home?

Q how does the insurance work

Q what if I breakdown or have an accident?

Q who gets the most out of car clubs?

• people who live in areas with restricted parking
• families with more than one car, often families that join find they can cut one of their cars out
• people who don’t own a car but would like to use one now and again, up to 4 times a week
• anyone that would like to choose from a range of current vehicles that might range from a smart car to a people-carrier to a van.
• car owners who do less than 8,000 miles a year
• anyone that doesn’t want the hassle of parking, insuring, taxing and maintaining a vehicle

• with many car clubs an almost instant booking is possible, as long as a vehicle is available (about 90% of the time)
• you can book by internet or phone, even by mobile! the cars are fitted with onboard computer systems linked to a control centre so instant access is possible

• special parking bays are being set aside by local authorities for car club use. These are at carefully selected convenient and safe locations.

• when you join the car club there is a contract to sign to enroll you in the clubs insurance scheme, usually you’ll need to be 21 years or older and have a clean licence.

• car clubs have breakdown cover for all their vehicles, what to do in the case of an accident is explained when you first join, if the accident is serious or anyone is hurt the police must be informed.

• Car club prices are set by the individual operator, but as a general guide, they usually cost between £4 and £8 per hour. This often includes petrol, and is usually inclusive of all other costs such as insurance. Also some operators charge an annual membership fee of between £50 and £150.