Getaround launches on-demand peer-to-peer car-sharing in Philadelphia

Getaround has launched their car-sharing platform in Philadelphia, enabling city residents to rent and drive cars that are owned by other residents within the city.

The cars available on the platform can be booked by the hour or by the day and are all equipped with a technology that allows users to remotely locate and unlock cars using the Getaround iPhone or Android app.

Consequently, a specific pick-up or drop-off point is not necessary when using the car-sharing service.

Unlike other rental car options, which add fleets of cars to the roads, Getaround reduces the number of cars on the road by facilitating the privately-owned vehicles that usually remain stationary for 23 hours per day on average in the U.S.

According to a study by the University of California Transportation Sustainability Research Center, every shared car removes approximately 10 personal vehicles off the road; alleviating congestion and reducing carbon emissions. It is estimated that 1,000 shared cars can offset up to 50 million pounds of carbon dioxide.

This programme will also enable car owners to earn thousands in extra income; helping offset the cost of the vehicle.

“It’s been our mission to drive change that has global impact, yet positively affects local communities,” said Sam Zaid, CEO and co-Founder of Getaround. “Our platform helps alleviate traffic congestion, while providing a long-term flexible model for car ownership and giving earning power to owners.”

In addition to its positive impact on urban mobility and the local environment, peer-to-peer car-sharing has quickly become a community favourite because of its contribution to local economic growth. Renting cars owned by people in Philadelphia neighbourhoods, rather than from a company, keeps revenue in the pockets of students, entrepreneurs, families and anyone who wants to earn extra income.

A full security screen of each renter, $1 million insurance policy to cover each booking, real-time GPS tracking and 24/7 customer support ensure that owners can confidently share their cars on the platform.

“We’re thrilled to add instant car-sharing to Philadelphia as we expand further into the Northeast and are ready to empower Philadelphia car owners to start sharing now,” said Nick Tenekedes, interim General Manager for Philadelphia, Getaround.