As of May 14th, the car-sharing service in Florence will be launched with smart cars from car2go, marking an exciting milestone in the city’s transportation infrastructure. This innovative approach to mobility aims to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainable travel options for residents and visitors alike. Two hundred vehicles environmentally friendly (gradually, as they will start with fewer) are available to registered clients on the website. Registration for the service is free until June 14th and includes 30 minutes of complimentary driving.
The car-sharing service arrives in Florence after successful experiences in Milan and Rome, demonstrating the growing demand for shared mobility solutions across Italy. Once the launch phase is completed, registration in Florence will cost €19 once, and the service will be €0.29 per minute for the first 50 kilometers. The hourly rate is €14.90, while the daily rate is €59 euros, including taxes, insurance, fuel, parking, IVA (Imposta sul Valor Aggiunto), and the first 50 kilometers.
The smart cars from car2go have CO2 emissions of 98 g/km, making them part of the category of vehicles that the 2014 incentive decree defines as BEC (Basse Emissioni Complessive), or Low Comprehensive Emissions. However, they are in a higher category (up to 120 g/km) and only incentivable through vehicle retirement.
The car-sharing service from car2go features the ability to rent vehicles at any time without dedicated stations. Users can pick up and drop off smart cars in any public parking lot within the area of operation (approximately 50 square kilometers in Florence). The use of blue or white stripes is free for residents, and access is also allowed in ZTLs (Zones a Traffico Limitato), which are designated traffic-free zones in Florence to reduce congestion and promote sustainable travel.
To get started with car2go in Florence, you need to complete five steps:
Step 1: Registration
New clients can register in person at the car2go shop on via Pertini 32 in Novoli or at the Legambiente regional headquarters on via Giampaolo Orsini 44. To register online, visit the website of car2go Fienze, where you can create an account and begin the registration process. The registration process typically takes a few minutes to complete, and you will receive a membership card that must be used to access the vehicles.
Step 2: Identifying Available Vehicles
Using the ‘search’ option on car2go.com and its mobile application, users can find a parked smart car nearby. Once found, the vehicle can be used immediately or reserved with an advance booking period of 30 minutes. The search function allows users to filter results by location, availability, and other criteria, making it easy to find the perfect vehicle for their needs.
Step 3: Entering the Vehicle
To enter the vehicle, pass your membership card through the reader on the windshield; the door will open, and you’ll need to insert the PIN code on the touch-screen. After verifying the vehicle’s conditions, you can extract the key and start the engine. The car2go system ensures that all vehicles are thoroughly inspected before they are made available for rent, so users can rest assured that their vehicle is in good condition.
Step 4: Driving
With the extracted key, the engine can be started for a limited time (48 hours maximum, within the boundaries of the car2go area). The rules are enforced by electronic means, including GPS tracking and speed limits. Users must also comply with local traffic regulations and park in designated areas.
Step 5: Ending the Noleggio
The vehicle can be returned to any public parking lot in the city area. Both blue and white stripes are allowed, making it easy for users to find a convenient spot to return their vehicle. The cost is automatically deducted from your credit card or pre-paid card upon completion of the rental period.
On May 14th, at 12 pm in Piazza della Signoria, there will be a debut and test drive for car2go smart cars in Florence. This event promises to be an exciting opportunity for users to experience the service firsthand and get a glimpse of what car2go has to offer.
Finding Electric Charging Stations
To find the nearest electric charging stations to your location, use the search engine mentioned in this article: Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. The car2go app also provides real-time information on charging station availability and locations, making it easy for users to plan their route and stay charged on the go.
The service is also available via mobile apps for iPhone / iOS and Samsung / Android devices, allowing users to access their account information, find vehicles, and check fuel levels on the go. The app also includes a map view, which helps users navigate the city and locate charging stations, making it easy to stay charged and on schedule.
Additional Information
Before using car2go in Florence, here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Taxes and Fees: The service includes taxes, insurance, fuel, parking, IVA, and the first 50 kilometers. These costs will be deducted from your credit card or pre-paid card upon completion of the rental period.
- Insurance Coverage: car2go offers basic insurance coverage for its vehicles, but users are still responsible for their own personal liability insurance.
- Vehicle Maintenance: car2go vehicles undergo regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that they meet safety standards. However, users may be required to report any damage or issues with the vehicle during rental.
Conclusion
The launch of car-sharing services in Florence marks an exciting new chapter in the city’s transportation infrastructure. With smart cars from car2go offering a convenient, affordable, and sustainable mobility solution for residents and visitors alike, there is no doubt that this service will be a hit with locals and tourists alike. By providing users with access to environmentally friendly vehicles, car2go helps reduce traffic congestion and promotes sustainable travel options in Florence.
Additional articles on related topics that may interest you:
- Train Travel with Car Sharing Services like Italo and car2go
- How Car-Sharing Works in Milan, and the Costs Involved
- An Article Explaining How Car-Sharing Works