WHY UK DRIVERS DRAG THEIR FEET WHEN IT COMES TO SHARING CARS

A car club, or car share as it is known in Europe, refers to a group of people who share the use of one or more cars. Schemes can range from community-run initiatives with one or two cars to national organisations with thousands of members. Car club membership has been shown to reduce car mileage and to increase walking and cycling and use of public transport. Car clubs reduce congestion and promote social inclusion. Car clubs have been introduced by Sutton and Southwalk councils in the UK, but progress has been hindered by lack of government support, lack of definition and competition from mini cabs. Integration into public transport networks and urban planning policy are seen as the key to success. The situation in the UK is contrasted with that in Switzerland, the Netherlands and the USA.