New car club to launch in Exeter following service gap

A shared car service is returning to Exeter, with council leaders hoping the move will help ease traffic and parking pressures in the city.

Five low-emission hybrid vehicles are set to be launched by operator Co Wheels on 18 March, following a procurement process by Devon County Council. The cars will be stationed at key sites across the city, including Southernhay East and Bartholomew Street West.

The return of a car club comes less than three years after the collapse of the city’s previous provider, Co-Cars. The Exeter-based not-for-profit company, which also operated an e-bike network, ceased trading in July 2023 after being hit by the pandemic, rising energy costs and a drop in demand.

Its closure left thousands of members with unused credit and ended nearly two decades of shared mobility in the city.

Devon County Council says the new scheme is part of its wider strategy to reduce reliance on private vehicle ownership and improve air quality.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, the council's cabinet member with responsibility for climate change, said: "Car clubs give people a practical alternative to owning a car, helping to cut congestion and reduce carbon emissions at the same time."

She added that the scheme supported the council’s ambitions to encourage more sustainable travel choices.

'Smarter alternative'

Research suggests that each car club vehicle has the potential to replace up to 20 private cars, as users are encouraged to walk, cycle or use public transport for their daily journeys.

Richard Falconer, head of mobility at Co Wheels, said: "Following high demand from residents, we are delighted to be growing the Co Wheels network in Exeter.

"Community car clubs give people the freedom of having access to a car without the cost and hassle of ownership."

The council has stated that the network may be expanded further if initial demand proves high. Members will manage bookings via a mobile app, with rental prices starting at £7.50 per hour.

As part of the launch, the operator is offering new members free standard membership and £25 in driving credit.