Zipcar, the car-sharing company, has expanded its car rental club to several new areas in the north of the borough.

Zipcar Flex gives residents easy access to a car when they need one without having to own a vehicle.

From Thursday, 8 July, designated Zipcars will be available for one-way hires within the Flex operating area which will include Richmond, Kew, East Sheen, Mortlake and Barnes.

Zipcar already operates in the borough from dedicated parking bays, but Zipcar Flex will make the service more accessible as the car does not need to be returned to the same parking bay at the end of each booking.

Zipcar Flex intends to expand into the rest of the borough as usage grows in the operating area.

Zipcar Flex cars can be parked in any residential or shared use parking bays within the Zipcar operating zone.

Zipcar Flex will also include a substantial number of pure electric vehicles, giving residents the opportunity to try electric vehicles and help improve local air quality.

Cllr Alexander Ehmann, Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, said:  

“Car clubs are an important and convenient solution for residents as we aim to reduce unnecessary car usage within the borough, especially for short journeys. Car sharing contributes to lower levels of local air pollution and traffic congestion.

“Additionally, over time the successful implementation of car sharing schemes can reduce parking pressure in local areas as some residents may choose to give up their personal cars in favour of more flexible solutions.”

Further information on Zipcar Flex is available here.

As part of Zipcar’s launch in Richmond upon Thames, Zipcar are offering all new users £14 worth of driving credit towards your first trip. Find out more and how to claim your free credit here.

If you have any queries relating to Zipcar Flex please contact transportation@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk