When we know that more and more cities are willing to reduce car use, especially for ecological but also noise concerns, car-sharing seems to be a good compromise. It is estimated that one car-sharing car replaces 5 to 8 private cars and frees up 1.5 to 3 on-street parking spaces. Used on a rather ad hoc basis, it is now a good complement to other forms of sustainable mobility. Allowing to cover longer distances than by public transport, it also guarantees a certain autonomy. But is this mode of transport really used by the French? What about the key figures and players in this market? As a mobility expert, discover the state of the market through this infography.
A well segmented B2C car-sharing market
There are 3 different models of car-sharing services for individuals. Firstly, we have B2C car-sharing in a loop. It has the particularity that the vehicle is returned to its departure station. This is the most common type of car sharing. In fact, more than half of the car-sharing operators in France adopt this model.
Then we have car sharing, in direct trace with stations. This service is distinguished by the fact that the vehicle can be returned to a station other than the one of departure. And finally, the third type of car sharing, namely free-floating, characterized by the fact that the car can be picked up and returned anywhere. And this within a defined perimeter.
“44% of shared mobility users, including 13% of self-service vehicles”
The car-sharing service mainly attracts French people in the 15-35 age group. 44% of French people say they use shared mobility at least from time to time. Among them, 13% say they use self-service cars. The main advantages of car-sharing are its flexibility and convenience, as it is used when needed.
In addition, it is also a good complement to other, gentler means of transport. Indeed, users are increasingly accustomed to combining it with other modes of transportation, such as bicycles or public transit. However, it is important to note that 27% of French people are afraid of poor hygiene. This fear is strongly increased, especially in this period of coronavirus.
“62% of the car-sharing actors are local”.
Today, many players are local, such as Totem Mobi in Marseille, Yélomobile in La Rochelle and Iodines in Toulouse. The reason? The need to know one’s environment and the user’s habits in order to offer the most appropriate service.
To date, the car-sharing service present on the whole territory is GetAround. This service, essentially B2C, aims to allow individuals to make their car available for other individuals to use, in the form of a rental. We also count, Citiz. A player present in a large part of the country because it operates through a regional alliance.
