April 01, 2008
Zipcar Completes Flexcar Integration
PITTSBURGH – Following its October merger with Flexcar, Zipcar has completed integration of the two services under the Zipcar service and brand, launching in six new states and bringing its service to Pittsburgh. The number of Zipcar members worldwide, which includes the U.S., Canada, and London, now totals 180,000, with 5,000 cars in the Zipcar fleet. In Pittsburgh, Zipcar has 34 vehicles located in Downtown, Oakland, Shadyside/East Liberty, Squirrel Hill, and Bloomfield, according to Zipcar.
Zipcar brings a larger network of vehicles from which to choose and service operating solely under Zipcar's enhanced, proprietary technology. In Pittsburgh, Zipcar offers members a diverse fleet of vehicles, including MINI Coopers, Hybrid Toyota Priuses, and, soon, Volvos.
Zipcar's system allows members to reserve online, by phone, or through their favorite Web-enabled mobile device. The Zipcar service also has a text messaging capability, allowing members to extend reservations via SMS. Zipcar's optimized technology gives it the ability to more adequately manage and scale the fleet across many markets. With systems updated in 2007, Zipcar can manage its fleet and reservation system in real time for more than a million members and tens of thousands of cars.
The integration allowed new visor organizers, vehicle branding, and consumer and business marketing materials to be integrated under the Zipcar brand. Also, pricing is now consistent under Zipcar's pricing plans for occasional and frequent drivers. Cars in Pittsburgh start at $9 per hour and $66 per day.