With many choosing to opt for the vacation closer to home, that doesn’t mean you still can’t have fun doing it. Many started going for drives to nowhere, particularly during the pandemic, just for a change in scenery. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle with more room for the family, something you can take off-road, a convertible for some freedom, or a classic to amp up your style, car sharing is becoming a better choice than the rental car hassle. You can find luxury, sophistication, and unique upgrades that rental car companies wouldn’t dream of offering. Owners are also taking advantage of this brilliant idea and using their vehicles to make money on the side.
Speedy Concept
According to new survey data from Turo, the peer-to-peer car sharing platform, 39 percent of its users turned to the automobile to get out of the house during COVID-19 restrictions. Flying causes much anxiety these days, so driving to locations is the safer choice for many.
The peer-to-peer car sharing concept has expanded significantly and in recent years, with companies like Turo and Getaround offering an Airbnb-like platform that allows individuals to rent out personal vehicles to other users at whatever price they set. Like Uber changed the face of calling for a cab, carsharing is changing the rental game. Business Wire noted in 2020, there were 50 unique operators in 33 countries worldwide, making it a low-cost investment for both owners and users. Carsharing services were used by more than 42 million people, who rented more than 1.3 million vehicles, with those numbers expanding every day.
The Internet, mobile technology, social networks, and the popularity of location-based software have contributed to the peer-to-peer car sharing growth. Millennials are less attracted to car ownership than previous generations. “Car sharing continues to boom amid the ongoing pandemic,” said Roger C. Lanctot, director of automotive connected mobility for Strategy Analytics. “For many, carsharing flourishes due to accessibility, convenience, and relative cleanliness compared to public transportation. This business model is here to stay,” added Ben Lundin, industry analyst for automotive connected mobility.
Benefits To All
Peer to Peer rentals is a brilliant concept, with lots of benefits for both owners and renters. It helps provide a convenient, economical solution that keeps money local, helps individuals make and save money, and takes the middleman out of the mix. These services are an excellent opportunity for people who do not always need a car and do not need car ownership. It’s even shown to benefit the environment with less automobile waste long-term and less fuel wasted getting to and from locations.
Carsharing allows owners to charge a fee to rent out their vehicles when they are not using them and their neighbors to pay less for vehicles that aren’t always available at a standard rental car company. Owners list their cars on the platforms, with photos, specifying make, model, color, and transmission. Prospective renters can look up these cars and rent out the one that matches their requirements and location the best. The vehicles can be rented out for anywhere from a few hours, days, weeks, or longer.
It’s a unique way for owners to make money if their vehicle is sitting idle and depreciating. Many who used to commute are now working from home, leaving their car payment burdening, so vehicle sharing assists with this problem. Some professionals purchase vehicles for work but choose to make significant money renting them out. For a small fee, these platforms provide endless options, helpful customer service, and protection plans so that you can drive or share with confidence. With features like mobile apps, advertising, insurance, roadside assistance, simple booking, payment assistance, and more, you can be confident knowing everyone involved is protected.
Adventure Awaits
Everyone, more than ever, is getting outside. With unexplored roads close to wherever you live, that means you need the right truck to get you there. Nothing quite gets us back to our roots, like heading into the woods, getting up to the backcountry, enjoying the lake; the possibilities are limitless. Nature provides the best stress relief, so make your time count.
Trucks also come in handy when you’re moving, knocking out that side project, or remodel. The extra bed space, more rigid interior, towing power, and even after market toolbox organization features can make all the difference. You’ll accomplish it faster, with less frustration, and get the job done.
Whether you’re looking to spice up your weekend, earn some extra income with your asset, or find a vehicle that will make your day a little sweeter, peer-to-peer vehicle sharing can come to your rescue. Available in all major cities, with locations being continually added, it’s a fun idea for all involved. Get out there and explore.
