- New data shows many Australians are using their cars less to save expenses, on average used for only four hours per week.
- Those with cars frequently going unused may be attracted to car sharing services to make extra money.
- Uber Carshare is offering $200 worth of rides for new users until 4 December.
A survey of 1,000, commissioned by Uber Carshare - formerly Car Next Door - found 59% of respondents are now using their car less to save money.
With prices of most everyday household goods continuing to soar, it seems many Australians have identified fuel and other vehicle running costs as an area they can cut back their spending.
As a result, the average car is unused for 161 out of 168 hours per week, with 41% of respondents using their car less than four hours per week.
The average estimate respondents gave for their annual vehicle running costs was $14,799.
Around 1.1 million Australians are considering selling their cars altogether as inflation continues to bite.
Using peer to peer carsharing apps like Uber CarShare, users can make their cars available to borrowers whenever they are not using them.
The tech giant suspended a disco finished car above Sydney on Wednesday in a publicity stunt designed to draw attention to the service.
The brand's survey found nearly half (48%) of respondents had either not heard of or not tried car sharing.
Uber say it has already paid out $60 million to users who have been renting out their cars.
Will Davies, CEO of Uber Carshare, says that these car sharing services are an opportunity for those with underutilised vehicles and those without a car at all.
“We want everyone to think differently about how they get around, and our research shows that the current cost of living crisis has gotten Aussies rethinking many aspects of their spending, including the costs of owning a car," Mr Davies said.
“[If] you don’t own a car – or your current car just isn’t right for a longer trip up the coast – there’s an easy, affordable option for you.”
Uber Carshare also announced new users who sign up will receive $200 worth of rides until 4 December.
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