Innovation Pilot Partner: Co-Wheels

Co-Wheels is trialling software and hardware solutions in Dundee to facilitate the development of Scotland’s first ‘back to area’ car club.

Geofenced pick-up and drop-off zones were introduced to the city so that car club users no longer have to rigidly stick to returning vehicles to a designated bay. This could ultimately increase the convenience, flexibility, and affordability of car clubs as a viable alternative to private car use. Industry estimates cite each car club vehicle replaces 13.4 private cars over a 12-month period. This means approximately 187 private cars could be taken off the streets of Dundee through this project.

This new operating model required the development of a new App and back-office platform which was developed as part of this project and trialled for the first time in Dundee. This included a new App-based keyless entry system to the car, providing greater convenience and easier access. Additionally, the app will provide a battery charge status to let the user know when their vehicle is fully charged.

Co-Wheels has completed beta testing of a back zone trial in Dundee and is evaluating the data generated and this was successfully launches with SOC. This included working with Dundee City Council Parking Service to trial the process of making vehicles exempt from parking restrictions.

This solution will reduce barriers to entry to Co-Wheels car club and enable a greater geographical spread of private, low or zero-emission vehicles in more areas throughout the city.

Car clubs provide their members with convenient access to cleaner vehicles without the hassle and expense of ownership (such as tax, MOT, fuel, servicing, repairs, depreciation and parking). For members who drive less than 6-8,000 miles per year, a car club could save up to £3,500 a year.