HOURCAR

HOURCAR, the Twin Cities' fast-growing car-sharing program, serves the Twin Cities with a fleet of Toyota Priuses, gas-electric hybrids that regularly garner over 47 miles to the gallon and produce relatively few emissions. Add to those vehicles an advanced plug-in hybrid vehicle, plus a zippy Toyota Yaris, and HOURCAR's 16-vehicle fleet makes a powerful green statement on the road. HOURCAR members make self-service reservations online or by phone, pick up an HOURCAR at a nearby hub, run errands and attend appointments, return the car to the same reserved parking space, lock it up and walk away.  The process is simple and convenient - there are no lines to wait in, and no paperwork to fill out. Cars have on-board computers to record trip information and members are billed monthly. The costs for gas, insurance, and parking are all included.

Drivers around the country have reported using transit more since becoming car-sharing members.  Portland cites increased bicycle use and walking among car-sharers, and Philadelphia has noted that car-sharing members drive less and walk, bike, and use transit more.  Research shows that the presence of car-sharing in a community reduces vehicle ownership and decreases greenhouse gas emissions, as trips are shifted to transit, biking, and walking.

HOURCAR members choose from a variety of rate plans to meet their needs.  One plan costs just $5 per month, $6.95 per hour, and $.45 mile.  Another plan includes 5 hours of driving and 75 miles for just $38/month.  There is no annual fee.

HOURCAR members must meet basic requirements, including holding a valid driver's license for five years.  Individual, household, and business memberships are available.  For information on hub locations, rates, or to join online, please visit www.HOURCAR.org.