WhizzGo: A Sustainable Approach to Urban Car Sharing
WhizzGo was designed as an environmentally sustainable service aimed at transforming how people navigate city centres. By providing a citywide fleet of low-emission Citroën cars stationed in designated on-street bays, the service sought to reduce urban pollution and traffic congestion. The core philosophy was to encourage members to adopt sustainable transport options—such as walking, cycling, or using public transport—thereby reducing the total number of private car trips.
Beyond providing vehicles, WhizzGo focused on environmental education, offering members green driving tips and options for carbon offsetting to further minimize their ecological footprint.
Strategic Partnerships and Expansion
To integrate seamlessly into the broader transport ecosystem, WhizzGo established a network of strategic partnerships. These collaborations spanned various sectors of travel and local governance to increase accessibility and utility for its users.
Transport and Mobility Partners
WhizzGo partnered with several key transport entities, including:
- Virgin Trains West Coast for intercity connectivity.
- Public transport operators such as Stagecoach Manchester and West Yorkshire Metro.
- Dahon, a provider of foldable bikes, to promote multi-modal travel.
Municipal Collaborations
The service expanded its reach through partnerships with various city councils across the UK, establishing a presence in:
- Leeds
- Sheffield
- York
- Liverpool
- Southampton
- St Albans
How the WhizzGo Service Worked
WhizzGo utilized a membership-based model that combined a fixed subscription with a flexible pay-as-you-go pricing structure. This allowed users to access a vehicle only when necessary rather than owning one.
Joining and Costs
To become a member, users were required to pay a joining fee of £25 and provide an insurance deposit of £125. Once registered, members paid a monthly membership fee of £5, after which they could rent vehicles by the hour or by the day.
The Access Process
The system employed a streamlined, technology-driven process for vehicle access:
- Members used a WhizzGo smart card, which was held against a sensor located in the vehicle's windscreen to unlock the doors.
- Once inside, the member entered a 4-digit PIN into the on-board computer.
- The vehicle keys were then retrieved from the glove compartment to begin the journey.
Key Facts
- Fleet: Low-emission Citroën cars located in designated on-street bays.
- Goal: Reduce pollution and congestion via sustainable transport education and carbon offsetting.
- Entry Cost: £25 joining fee and £125 insurance deposit.
- Recurring Cost: £5 monthly membership fee plus hourly or daily rates.
- Access Method: Smart card sensor and 4-digit PIN.
| Requirement/Fee | Cost/Detail |
|---|---|
| Joining Fee | £25 |
| Insurance Deposit | £125 |
| Monthly Fee | £5 |
| Payment Model | Pay-as-you-go (Hourly/Daily) |
| Authentication | Smart Card & 4-digit PIN |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary goal of WhizzGo?
WhizzGo aimed to provide an environmentally sustainable service that reduced city pollution and congestion by encouraging members to use public transport, walk, or cycle more often.
Which car brand did WhizzGo use for its fleet?
The service utilized a fleet of low-emission Citroën cars.
How did members unlock the cars?
Members held a WhizzGo smart card against a sensor in the windscreen to unlock the doors, then entered a 4-digit PIN into the on-board computer.
Which city councils partnered with WhizzGo?
WhizzGo partnered with councils in Leeds, Sheffield, York, Liverpool, Southampton, and St Albans.
What were the initial costs to join the scheme?
New members were required to pay a £25 joining fee and a £125 insurance deposit.