Sacramento Boosts EV Access with New Car Share Program
Sacramento is launching an innovative car share program aimed at making electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible and affordable for its residents. This initiative directly addresses transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions by providing a cleaner driving option, particularly for underserved neighborhoods.
Why Sacramento is Going Electric
Transportation accounts for a significant 57% of greenhouse gas emissions in Sacramento. While walking, biking, and public transit are encouraged, the city recognizes that cars are often necessary. This new program offers a practical solution: driving electric when a car is needed, making the cleanest option available to more people.
How the EV Car Share Program Works
Building on the existing Community Car Share program with the Sac Metro Air District, this initiative offers a straightforward way to access electric vehicles. Residents can sign up to become a member if they are income-qualified or live within one mile of one of the five new designated locations. Membership provides access to Zipcar car share vehicles via an easy-to-use app. Users simply sign up through the Air District website, get a Zipcar account, and check out a car when needed, returning it for the next user.
Eligibility and Targeted Communities
The program specifically targets individuals and families who might not otherwise have access to an electric vehicle. This includes working families, seniors, and young people interested in driving an EV but unable to afford personal ownership. Income-qualified residents who receive state or federal benefits like CalFresh or utility assistance are highly encouraged to participate. The program aims to serve those who don’t have easy access to a car or home charging already.
New Car Share Locations
Five new locations have been carefully selected to fill gaps in areas where residents need it most, focusing on places with low income or high concentrations of multi-family housing without private charging access. These community hubs also ensure convenience:
- Mangan Park
- Belle Cooledge Library
- Valley Hi – North Laguna Library
- South Natomas Community Center
- Pannell Community Center
Special Incentive: $100 Free Driving
To kickstart participation, the city is offering a generous incentive. If you sign up between now and December 31st and meet the income qualifications, you will receive $100 in free driving credits. This is equivalent to approximately 25 hours of free driving, making it an excellent opportunity to experience the benefits of electric mobility.
Comparing Car Share to Ownership
The EV Car Share program presents a unique alternative to traditional vehicle ownership, especially for its target demographic:
| Feature | EV Car Share Program | Personal EV Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Low/None (membership, usage fees) | High (purchase price) |
| Maintenance | Covered by program | Owner’s responsibility |
| Charging Access | Designated stations at car share sites | Home or public charging, owner’s responsibility |
| Availability | On-demand via app, shared fleet | Always available to owner |
| Target Audience | Income-qualified, underserved communities | General public |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I qualify for the program?
You must either meet income requirements or live within one mile of one of the five designated EV car share locations in a disadvantaged community (excluding Belle Cooledge Library). - Is this program like Uber or Lyft?
Similar in convenience, but you drive the car yourself. You check out an EV using the app, drive it, and return it to its designated spot when finished. - Where can I find more information and sign up?
Visit CityofSacramento.gov/Blueprint to take the eligibility quiz. You’ll then be connected with a program manager to assist with sign-up. - What is the incentive for joining?
Income-qualified individuals who sign up by December 31st will receive $100 in free Zipcar driving credits, which equals about 25 hours of free driving.
This program is a significant step forward for Sacramento, empowering more residents to embrace sustainable transportation and contribute to a greener city.
Sacramento Boosts EV Access with New Car Share
