Car sharing has become a popular mode of transportation in Canada, offering a convenient and affordable alternative to owning a car. With over 20 car sharing organizations operating across the country, choosing the right car sharing company can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore some of the best car sharing companies in Canada, based on factors like fleet size, pricing, and service quality.
Zipcar
Zipcar is one of the largest car sharing companies in the world, with a presence in over 500 cities across the globe. In Canada, Zipcar operates in Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa, and offers a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs and trucks. Zipcar has a user-friendly online reservation system and a mobile app that allows members to reserve and unlock vehicles on the go.
Zipcar’s pricing is competitive, with hourly rates starting at $9.25 in Vancouver, $10.50 in Toronto, and $9.50 in Ottawa. Members can also choose from several pricing plans, including the “Occasional Driving Plan” and the “Extra Value Plan,” which offer discounted rates and other benefits.
Zipcar’s fleet is well-maintained and includes a variety of fuel-efficient vehicles, which aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability. Zipcar also offers 24/7 roadside assistance and a damage fee waiver program, which can provide peace of mind for members.
Zipcar also has a strong commitment to safety, with a comprehensive safety program that includes regular vehicle inspections, driver screening, and ongoing driver education. The company also has a partnership with the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) to provide members with additional roadside assistance and other benefits.
Enterprise CarShare
Enterprise CarShare is another major player in the car sharing industry, with a presence in over 35 cities in North America. In Canada, Enterprise CarShare operates in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Halifax, and offers a variety of vehicles, including hybrids and electric cars. Enterprise CarShare has a user-friendly online reservation system and a mobile app that allows members to reserve and unlock vehicles.
Enterprise CarShare’s pricing is competitive, with hourly rates starting at $8.99 in Toronto, $9.99 in Montreal, $8.49 in Ottawa, and $9.99 in Halifax. Members can also choose from several pricing plans, including the “Pay as You Go” and the “Business Rental Program.”
In addition to its diverse fleet of vehicles, Enterprise CarShare has a strong commitment to sustainability, with a global sustainability program that includes initiatives like using alternative fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The company also has a partnership with WeCar, a car sharing company that focuses specifically on university and corporate campuses.
Enterprise CarShare also has a strong commitment to safety, with a comprehensive safety program that includes regular vehicle inspections, driver screening, and ongoing driver education. The company also has a partnership with the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) to provide members with additional roadside assistance and other benefits.
Modo
Modo is a car sharing co-operative that operates in Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island. The organization offers a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to vans and trucks, and has a strong focus on environmental sustainability. Modo has a user-friendly online reservation system and a mobile app that allows members to reserve and unlock vehicles.
Modo’s pricing is competitive, with hourly rates starting at $5.50 in Metro Vancouver and $6 in Victoria. Members can also choose from several pricing plans, including the “Casual Plan” and the “Monthly Plan,” which offer discounted rates and other benefits.
Modo’s fleet is well-maintained and includes a variety of fuel-efficient vehicles, which aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability. Modo also offers 24/7 roadside assistance and a damage waiver program, which can provide peace of mind for members.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Modo has a strong focus on community engagement, with initiatives like its Community Outreach Program, which provides free car sharing to non-profit organizations and community groups.
Communauto
Communauto is a car sharing company that operates in several Canadian cities, including Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax, and Edmonton. The organization offers a variety of vehicles, including electric cars, and has a strong focus on community engagement and sustainability. Communauto has a user-friendly online reservation system and a mobile app that allows members to reserve and unlock vehicles.
Communauto’s pricing is competitive, with hourly rates starting at $3.45 in Montreal, $3.90 in Quebec City, $4.25 in Halifax, and $4.50 in Edmonton. Members can also choose from several pricing plans, including the “Value Plan” and the “Flex Plan,” which offer discounted rates and other benefits.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Communauto has a strong focus on community engagement, with initiatives like its Community Outreach Program, which provides free car sharing to non-profit organizations and community groups. The company also has a partnership with EVO, a car sharing company in British Columbia, to offer reciprocal membership benefits to members of both organizations.
Communauto also has a comprehensive safety program that includes regular vehicle inspections, driver screening, and ongoing driver education. The company also has a partnership with the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) to provide members with additional roadside assistance and other benefits.
Turo
Turo is a peer-to-peer car sharing platform that allows car owners to rent out their vehicles to other individuals. The platform operates in several Canadian cities, including Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, and offers a wide range of vehicles, from luxury cars to sports cars and minivans. Turo has a user-friendly online reservation system and a mobile app that allows users to search for and book vehicles.
Turo’s pricing varies depending on the vehicle and location, but it is generally competitive with traditional car rental companies. Members can also choose from several pricing plans, including the “Standard Plan” and the “Premium Plan,” which offer additional benefits like insurance coverage and roadside assistance.
Turo’s fleet is diverse and includes a wide range of vehicles, from high-end luxury cars to budget-friendly options. Turo also offers 24/7 roadside assistance and insurance coverage, which can provide peace of mind for users.
In addition to its commitment to providing a convenient and affordable car sharing option, Turo also has a partnership with the Insurance Bureau of Canada to provide insurance coverage to both car owners and renters.
Conclusion
Choosing the right car sharing company in Canada depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you are looking for a large fleet of vehicles, competitive pricing, a strong commitment to sustainability, or community engagement, there is a car sharing company in Canada that will meet your needs. Zipcar, Enterprise CarShare, Modo, Communauto, and Turo are some of the best car sharing companies in Canada, offering a convenient and affordable alternative to owning a car. With their focus on safety, sustainability, and community engagement, these companies are helping to shape the future of transportation in Canada.
