Zipcar

Zipcar is a membership-based car-sharing service that lets users reserve vehicles by the hour or day and access them via a mobile app or dedicated card. Vehicles are typically parked in designated city locations, and members unlock and start cars remotely. The service generally includes fuel, insurance, and 24/7 roadside assistance in the rental price, with users paying for time and mileage. Zipcar targets urban residents and organizations seeking flexible transportation without owning a car.

Founded in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 2000 by Antje Danielson and Robin Chase, Zipcar began as a local car-sharing initiative and expanded to multiple cities over the following years. It went public in 2011 and later broadened its offerings to corporate and university programs. In 2010 Zipcar acquired Streetcar, expanding its presence in the United Kingdom and Europe.

In 2013 Zipcar was acquired by Avis Budget Group for about $500 million, and continues to operate as a subsidiary and brand within the Avis portfolio. The company has since integrated into Avis’s broader car-sharing strategy while maintaining the Zipcar name in many markets.

Geographically, Zipcar operates in North America and Europe, focusing on dense urban areas with frequent short trips. The brand competes with other car-sharing and mobility services and has evolved alongside mobile app technology to streamline reservations, vehicle access, and billing. Zipcar’s model is often framed as a means to reduce ownership costs and promote shared mobility in cities.