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Zipcar Exits UK: Government's Green Transport Fails
7 Dec
Summary
- Zipcar, a major carsharing service, is ceasing UK operations.
- The UK government offers billions to private cars, not car clubs.
- Electric cars still cause pollution and increase driving.
The impending closure of Zipcar's UK operations marks a significant setback for carsharing initiatives aimed at reducing traffic and emissions. This move leaves hundreds of thousands of Britons without a vital service, particularly impacting those who rely on it for occasional vehicle needs. Despite national policies advocating for sustainable travel and reduced car dependency, the UK's car club infrastructure is notably underdeveloped compared to other European countries.
The government's recent budget allocated substantial funds, amounting to £1.95 billion for electric car subsidies and £500 million for charging infrastructure, alongside support for private automotive companies. This contrasts sharply with the absence of financial aid for car clubs, which are considered a more cost-effective solution for reducing car ownership. Experts suggest this focus may be influenced by lobbying efforts from the electric vehicle sector.
Furthermore, the article questions whether a shift to electric cars truly addresses the environmental impact of car dominance. While EVs reduce tailpipe emissions, their manufacturing is carbon-intensive, and increased private EV ownership, as seen in Norway, can paradoxically lead to more driving. The emphasis on private vehicles, even electric ones, perpetuates issues of urban congestion and car dependency, underscoring a need to prioritize shared mobility.
