Indianapolis tries out electric car sharing
The BlueIndy program, which is being hailed by some as an alternative method of transportation that helps save energy, has kicked off in Indianapolis, with strong support from Greg Ballard, the city's mayor.
Indianapolis has partnered with Bollore Group, a French company, to launch the concept. Drivers who want to use the service buy a membership, and can then rent an electric car by the hour. After they have finished using the vehicle, they can return it to any one of the 26 charging stations throughout the city.
Ballard said he believes many people will enjoy having the service available. He says it is perfect for patrons like students who do not want a car, people who downsize after children leave home, and those who need a reliable vehicle but cannot afford car payments along with registration fees, gas, and insurance.
According to Bollore, the company plans to invest $41m in BlueIndy, and plans to eventually have 200 charging stations in operation, supporting 500 cards. In addition to Bollore's financing, Indianapolis Power and Light Company is putting $3m toward the effort, and the city is kicking in another $6m.
Although some people are skeptical, BlueIndy says it has already sold more than 1,000 memberships, and expects thousands of people to use the cars during the company’s first year of operation.
BlueIndy could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents describing the new service.
Indianapolis has partnered with Bollore Group, a French company, to launch the concept. Drivers who want to use the service buy a membership, and can then rent an electric car by the hour. After they have finished using the vehicle, they can return it to any one of the 26 charging stations throughout the city.
Ballard said he believes many people will enjoy having the service available. He says it is perfect for patrons like students who do not want a car, people who downsize after children leave home, and those who need a reliable vehicle but cannot afford car payments along with registration fees, gas, and insurance.
According to Bollore, the company plans to invest $41m in BlueIndy, and plans to eventually have 200 charging stations in operation, supporting 500 cards. In addition to Bollore's financing, Indianapolis Power and Light Company is putting $3m toward the effort, and the city is kicking in another $6m.
Although some people are skeptical, BlueIndy says it has already sold more than 1,000 memberships, and expects thousands of people to use the cars during the company’s first year of operation.
BlueIndy could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents describing the new service.