AutoShare Offers Torontonians Better Service and More Choices in Car Sharing Market

AutoShare members enjoy new vehicle options and lower rates

TORONTO, Aug. 6, 2014 /CNW/ - Getting around Toronto by car is now more convenient. Since becoming part of the Enterprise CarShare network in March, AutoShare is proud to offer members more benefits than ever before with increased vehicle options and lower rates.  As a result, membership is at an all-time high.

AutoShare is served by Enterprise CarShare, which is a natural extension of the local car rental service of Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Over a four month period, AutoShare has expanded its fleet by more than 100 vehicles including 10 new makes and models. Today, 30 per cent of the fleet is made up of new vehicles and more vehicles will be added throughout the summer.

"This has been a period of extraordinary change for us at AutoShare, in the best possible way," said Kevin McLaughlin, founder of AutoShare. "Since integrating with Enterprise, we have been able to significantly upgrade our system and selection for new and existing customers, all while reducing the price. We look forward to continually providing more locations, more vehicle varieties and more options for our members."

New vehicles

AutoShare members can choose from new vehicles in the economy, standard, specialty or luxury categories. New options include the Audi A4, BMWX1, Chrysler Town and Country, Ford Focus Hatchback, Hyundai Accent, Kia Soul, Mazda 5 Wagon, Mini Countryman, Nissan Note, Subaru Outback, and more.

Improving rates and other benefits

The expansion of services doesn't stop at vehicle choices. Members benefit from a lower rate of $8.25 per hour, and the kilometre limit has increased from 150 to 200 km per day. As part of the Enterprise network, AutoShare members now receive a 10 per cent discount on Enterprise car rentals to facilitate longer journeys. Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 542 car rental branch offices throughout Canada, with more than 130 offices in the Greater Toronto Area alone.

New drivers welcome

AutoShare is making it easier for new drivers to use its service. Individuals holding a G2 license can join the car sharing service and receive the benefits of this growing network.  Furthermore, motorists aged 21 and older can sign up with AutoShare, making it a viable and affordable option for young drivers.

Building an insurance record

With Ontarian's paying the highest automotive insurance rates in Canada, AutoShare has the added benefit of helping its members build an insurance record if they are using a personal account. This benefit is similar to owning a car, and could save members thousands of dollars a year if they decide to buy a car.

Sustainable transportation for Toronto

AutoShare pioneered car sharing in Toronto in 1998, and since that time has been a committed part of the transit system. With over 175 locations across Toronto and parts of the GTA as well as the best member-to-car ratio of any shared fleet, AutoShare's members lead the car sharing economy in Canada's largest city. Enterprise Rent-A-Car Canada Company acquired AutoShare because it recognized Toronto as a dense, growing and modern city that is ideal for a sustainable car sharing economy.

Street teams

To help connect consumers with these extended services, AutoShare street teams can be found in high-traffic areas and at large-scale events in Toronto. These teams educate customers on the benefits of car sharing and offer discounted rates for new member registration.

About AutoShare

Founded in 1998, AutoShare is Toronto's first car sharing company. The company pioneered car sharing in the GTA, starting in 1998 with a commitment to being part of the transit-system. With vehicles at over 175 locations across the city, AutoShare's 13,000 members can choose from a variety of vehicles starting at $6.75/hr including gas and insurance. AutoShare prides itself on having a fuel-efficient fleet and the best member-to-car ratio of any shared fleet. AutoShare is served by Enterprise CarShare, which is a natural extension of the local car rental service of Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

SOURCE: AutoShare

For more information on AutoShare and its services, please visit www.AutoShare.com.