Zipcar

Zipcar, founded in Cambridge in 2000 and now a subsidiary of Avis Budget Group, is one of the world's leading car-sharing providers, operating in over 500 cities across North America and Europe. In Canada, it serves major urban areas, notably Toronto, offering round-trip rentals by the hour or day, as well as access through its app or Zipcard.

Membership includes gas (up to 200 km/day), insurance, maintenance, and designated parking spots. Rates start from $9/month or $90/year, plus usage fees; extra kms are billed per km. The app also allows unlocking cars, extending trips, and locating nearby vehicles.

Strengths:

• On-demand flexibility: book within minutes and drive instantly.
• All‑inclusive pricing removes hidden costs.
• Reliable fleet with designated parking and 24/7 roadside support.

Considerations:

• Service is not available in Vancouver since exiting B.C. in 2020 due to insurance issues.
• Requires returning to the same pick-up spot; no one-way or free-floating options.
• Late fees and damage charge policies have drawn past criticism (“hidden fees” lawsuits) .

Zipcar is a strong choice for urban Canadians seeking a flexible, predictable, and tech-driven alternative to car ownership or traditional rental, especially in Toronto. It may fit the needs of occasional users or those wanting a self-service option for errands, campus, or out-of-city trips.