BUDGET Rent a Car and Vipre, part of the Budget Group, have teamed up to launch a new type of commuting solution called driveshare. The scheme is based on the use of a luxury minibus by groups of up to eight for their daily journey to and from work. One member of the group becomes the nominated driver and is responsible for looking after the vehicle when it is not is use. He or she usually travels free while the others share the expense of operating the vehicle.

Vipre's service covers all expenses associated with operating a vehicle including capital cost, depreciation, insurance, maintenance and repairs, emergency rescue services and loan vehicles. The company will also identify groups of employees who could take part in the scheme, based on where they live. It then implements an agreed transport plan and provides ongoing customer service support.

Vipre leases a vehicle - in the UK, a Ford Torneo GLX eight-seater - on a monthly basis with a rental based on distance covered. Passengers divide this cost, and fuel bills, among themselves. The scheme also incorporates a 'guaranteed ride home' service in the event of an employee having to leave early or work late.