Modo Co-Op
Modo is British Columbia’s first and largest member-owned car-sharing cooperative, founded in Vancouver in 1997. With over 1,000 vehicles—including cars, EVs, trucks, SUVs, vans and cargo vans—Modo serves Greater Vancouver, Greater Victoria, Nanaimo, Kelowna, and nearby communities.
Operating on a round-trip model, each vehicle has a reserved parking spot where members pick up and return the vehicle. Bookings can be made up to a year in advance or on short notice. Membership includes fuel, insurance, maintenance, and parking—no hidden fees.
Strengths:
- Stable and inclusive co-op structure: Member ownership guides policy, emphasizing sustainability and community impact.
- Transparent pricing: Time + distance billing, with no surprise charges for fuel or maintenance.
- Large and diverse fleet: Vehicles range from EVs and hybrids to cargo vans and trucks—ideal for all trip types.
Considerations:
- Two-way model only: Vehicles must be returned to their original spot—less flexibility than one-way services.
- App experience mixed: Users report inconsistent booking extensions and occasional app glitches.
- Dedicated parking needed: Stations may be up to 10 blocks away in some areas.
Modo supports both personal and business memberships, and is active in environmental initiatives (EV adoption, First Nations land acknowledgment). Their mobile app, available on iOS and Android, supports real-time booking, modifications, and vehicle access.
Overall, Modo is a reliable, community-focused and cost-transparent option for those seeking planned, round-trip car-sharing in BC. It's a smart choice for sustainability-minded users and local co-op supporters.