Is Zipcar for You?

If you've ever considered going car-free but couldn't quite shake the feeling that you'd regret it every once in a while, Zipcar could be for you. Modeled on European car-sharing services, Zipcar now has locations in ten major American cities (and over a hundred college campuses), plus Toronto, Vancouver, and London. Users buy a yearly membership (starting at around $50), then reserve vehicles online when they want to drive. The hourly or daily fees (from about $7 and $60, respectively), include gasoline and insurance. Vehicles, from minis to vans, are parked in various locations throughout participating cities. In some areas, members can even enjoy the extra-green luxury of hybrids. For occasional drivers, the convenience and cost really can't be beat, and the cars are cute and well-maintained. As a bonus, Zipcar members enjoy deals and special programs from partner companies, including a 10% discount at Kimpton hotels (previously featured by The Green Connoisseur).

Eco Limos: Chauffeured Rides Go Green

Traditional stretch limos are no longer the chic way to arrive in style.  Eco-friendly limo services first appeared in 2004 with Y Fray's California based Eco Limo.  The company's fleet includes the classic Toyota Prius, the luxury Lexus 400 hybrid, and an assortment of other hybrid/electric cars and biodiesel fueled SUVs.  

Lexus 400h Photo via Lexus.com

Since the introduction of Eco Limo, planet-friendly limousine services have began to appear across the world.  Fray's Eco Limo currently serves an international population, primarily made up of celebrities in the Los Angeles/San Francisco area as well as clients in New York, DC, and Canada.

Ecolimo Australia has served green-minded clients in Sydney and Melbourne since 2006.  Owner Don Pyke started the service with the hybrid Lexus GS450 and offered the first Toyota Prius for hire in Australia in 2008.  Both vehicles are currently available at both Ecolimo Australia locations and are quite popular with newlyweds seeking a greener option for their wedding.

Colorado residents and visitors can take advantage of Green Limousine, began in 2005 by Seth Bounds to offer an eco-friendly option to hired luxury cars.  Green Limousine specializes in hybrid electric SUVs and luxurious cars operated on ethanol and biodiesel.  The company also offers an extensive selection of organic beer, wine, and champagne to passengers, as well as healthy, organic snacks.

Green Tomato Cars offers eco-friendly car services in London, including the world's first plug-in hybrid car for hire - the Toyota Super Prius.  The entire fleet at Green Tomato Cars includes nothing but the Prius, ensuring a green choice for every ride.

A premier limousine service in the Cincinnati area, A Savannah Nite began their eco-conscience efforts in 2007.  Currently their green fleet of limos includes their first eco-option, the hybrid Toyota Camry, an eco-friendly Mercedes bus, and a freight liner limo bus operating on biodiesel.  Chauffeured hybrid SUVs will soon be available as well, as the company makes progress in converting their entire fleet of limos to more eco-friendly choices.  

Green limousine services continue to emerge in countries all over the world, some completely new startups and others are existing limo services making eco-friendly decisions.  The next time you're planning a chauffeured drive, whether it's 1 passenger or 20, consider an eco limo - decrease your footprint without sacrificing comfort or style.