29.03.2023

Car-sharing vs. ride-hailing: what's the difference and which one is best?

In recent years, ride-hailing and car-sharing have become increasingly popular alternatives to traditional car ownership. Both options offer flexibility and convenience, but what is the difference between the two, and which one should you choose for getting from A to B? In this article, we'll explore the differences between car-sharing and ride-hailing in order to help you decide which one is the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.

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What is car-sharing all about?

Car-sharing is a service that allows individuals to rent a car on a short-term basis, usually by the hour or day. Car-sharing services provide their own fleet of cars that are stationed in various locations throughout the city or free-floating on the streets ready to be unblocked and driven with just a smartphone app. Car-sharers can also reserve a car online, and then pick up the car at a pre-determined location. It’s flexible, and moulds to the way you want to rent a car.

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What is ride-hailing all about?

Ride-hailing, on the other hand, is more like calling a taxi or even sharing a ride with other passengers who are headed in the same direction. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft connect drivers with passengers who need a ride via mobile apps. Passengers can request a ride through a mobile app and are then matched with a driver who is nearby. The driver picks up the passenger and takes them to their destination. In Europe, apps like BlaBlaCar have brought the carpooling concept to the Uber model to connect drivers and passengers willing to travel together between cities and share the cost of the journey.

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The cost comparison

When it comes to cost, car-sharing and ride-hailing can be similar or different depending on various factors. Car-sharing services often charge by the minute, hour or day, and prices can vary based on the type of car you choose. Ride-hailing services, on the other hand, charge per ride, and prices can fluctuate depending on demand. It's also worth noting that both car-sharing and ride-hailing can be cheaper than owning a car, particularly in urban areas where parking and maintenance costs can add up quickly. For short trips in the city, car-sharing is competitive with ride-hailing in terms of price. For longer day trips or long-term rentals, car-sharing competes with traditional car rental services. Both are almost always cheaper than taxis.

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The convenience comparison

Both car-sharing and ride-hailing offer convenience, but in different ways. Car-sharing services provide users with a vehicle that they can use for a specific period, while ride-hailing services offer a ride to a specific destination. Car-sharing can be more convenient for longer trips or if you need a car for a specific task, while ride-hailing is great for shorter trips or if you don't want to deal with the hassle of finding a parking space at your destination. In addition, car-sharing can be just as useful when travelling to airports as ride-hailing, as you can often leave the car at dedicated car-sharing parking spots.

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Which one should you choose?

For most people, car-sharing is the best option when it comes to getting around without owning a car. Car-sharing services provide their communities with vehicles that they can use for a specific period of time, making it a great option for longer trips or if you need a car for specific needs. Additionally, car-sharing services often have a variety of vehicle types available, allowing you to choose a car that best fits your needs and budget. While ride-hailing services can be convenient for shorter trips or if you don't want to deal with the hassle of driving and parking, they can also be more expensive in the long run, particularly if you need to use them frequently.

David McCourt

David McCourt

Sr. Editorial Content Strategist

"Own less, share more."

David is on a mission to improve the quality of life in cities through modern mobility solutions.