Car clubs: an alternative to the pool car?

An increasing number of private and public sector fleets are turning to car clubs as a flexible alternative to pool car schemes.

They have become a familiar site on the streets of London, Leeds and a number of other UK cities and, while they provide a transport solution to thousands of people, businesses are also embracing the car club concept.

Transport for London claims joining a car club could save you nearly £2,000 a year and make servicing, maintenance, tax, insurance and MOT costs a thing of the past.

How it works:

• Register with a car club to receive a smartcard and PIN
• Book your car
• Swipe your smartcard to gain access to your car and enter your PIN
• Return the car to its dedicated parking bay when you're finished

The cost

Most car clubs will charge you:

• An annual fee or deposit of £100 to £200
• £4.00 - £5.00 for the first hour and £2.00 - £3.00 for subsequent hours
• Around 15-20 pence a mile for a typical urban journey
• Some clubs also take a booking charge.

For further information about car clubs in your area, visit www.carplus.org.uk.