Little cars get big city expansion

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The bright blue and white Car2Go vehicles you’ve seen all around town are no longer just for City employees to use.

Starting Friday, all Austinites can utilize the program.

The City of Austin launched a pilot partnership with the Car2Go program last November on a trial basis for City employees, averaging 2,000 rentals a week. Now, there are 200 cars available and 80 specific Car2Go parking spaces in Downtown Austin.

"Just one more example of the innovative-type solutions we have to have to relieve congestion in the central business district, the UT area and Capitol area where other solutions are really limited," said Mayor Lee Leffingwell.

The rental cost depends on how long you have the vehicle. Gas, maintenance, parking and insurance are all included.

The pilot program's popularity grew over time and there are currently 3000 members with access to the 200 smart cars in the downtown area. Car2Go North America President Nicholas Cole says they will be able to support up to 40,000 members and the fleet could crow.

"During the upcoming months we will assess memberships and the demand to put more vehicles on the street," said Cole.

There were very few problems during the trial period.

In the first quarter of 2010, there were more than 7500 rentals in Austin which logged more than half a million minutes and yet there were no reports of break-ins, accidents, or misuse.

Thursday, the Environmental Protection Agency presented the Car2Go program and the City of Austin with a Clean Air Excellence award for their efforts in reducing emissions.

Car2Go is celebrating their public launch Friday at Republic Square Park at Fourth and Guadalupe streets. The event starts at 4 p.m.

In addition to entertainment, you'll have an opportunity to test drive a car and register to become a member.