Car-sharing services will surpass 12 million members worldwide by 2020
As an alternative or a supplement to personal vehicle ownership, carsharing provides drivers with convenient and affordable access to a range of vehicles on an hourly or daily basis. Enjoying rapid growth since the 1990s, the carsharing market has grown from an informal network of small companies and organizations to a market driven by major multinational corporations. According to a new report from Navigant Research, worldwide membership in carsharing programs will grow from 2.3 million in 2013 to more than 12 million by 2020.
“Carsharing offers members the ability to enjoy mobility without the expense and hassle of owning a car, or the need to frequently rent a vehicle from a traditional car rental agency,” says Lisa Jerram, senior research analyst with Navigant Research. “In addition, carsharing is viewed by both public and private entities as a powerful tool to reduce urban congestion and lower emissions of greenhouse gases.”
The growth of the carsharing market, however, will continue to be limited by the perceived inconvenience of not privately owning a vehicle. Additionally, consumer attitudes about cars as symbols of status, success, privacy, and freedom persist. Most importantly, according to the report, this market is constrained by the ability of carsharing companies to achieve sufficient revenue per vehicle in order to create a sustainable, profitable business.
The report, “Carsharing Programs”, examines the evolution of carsharing services in regions around the world. The study examines the key drivers and barriers to continued expansion, as well as the societal benefits of carsharing. Market forecasts for vehicle demand due to carsharing programs, reduced personal vehicle acquisition, and revenue from carsharing services by region extend through 2020. The report also reviews market segmentation and key logistical considerations, and provides short profiles of the top companies involved in the carsharing industry. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website.