Answers

How AutoShare Works

Booking
Driving
Paying your Invoice
Insurance, Damage, Late Returns & Tickets
Cleaning & Maintenance
Miscellaneous

BOOKING

How do I book a vehicle (once I am a member)?
When you decide that you want a vehicle, you can simplylog into our online reservation site - or call our 24-hour reservation line – to reserve one for the time that you need it. You pick up and return the vehicle to the same parking spot. You have instant, self-serve access through our security system, which means that you don’t need to go to an office every time that you drive a vehicle.

Can I only book a vehicle during regular business hours?
No, cars or vans can be booked 24 hours a day, seven days a week by phone or Internet.

How long in advance must I reserve a vehicle?
You can book on the spur-of-the-moment, or up to 1 year in advance. There is no standard or required time frame to arrange for a vehicle. (50% of trips are booked on the same day that they’re taken.) However, the further in advance the more certain you will be of having a vehicle when you need it.

Do I have to go to the office to pick up / drop off a key each time I drive?
No. You will get "self serve" access to our security system that will allow you to access and drive the entire fleet as needed.

How many people do I share my vehicle with?
All AutoShare members have access to all of the cars and vans in the fleet. Although you may usually drive a few specific ones, there may be times when you want a vehicle closer to work, a special type of vehicle or your first choice is not available.

How often can I drive?
You can drive as often – or as little – as you like, no matter which plan you are in.

What is the busiest time of the week?
The busiest time of the week is Saturday, and then Sunday, 10am – 4pm. Although we usually have vehicles available during these periods, it may not be the closest vehicle to you. It is always a good idea to book as soon as you know that you want to drive.

How long am I allowed to have a vehicle?
AutoShare cars and vans are available for as little as 1 hour, or as long as you would like. (Since weekends are the busiest times, we may limit weekend use on a portion of our fleet.)

And how many times a week can I use it?
As many times as you like

Can I take it for longer trips?
Of course. In fact, we offer an Automatic Discount called the "Daily" rate, which comparable to renting a car for a 24 hr period. AutoShare’s billing system automatically gives you the best price on any trip, and the Daily rate kicks in at about 8 hours or so.

Can I pick up a car from one place, and drop it at another?
No. Vehicles must be returned to the lot they were picked up at.

Can I go out of Province with AutoShare?
Yes, anywhere in Canada or the USA.

Can I go to the USA with an AutoShare car?
Yes.

Can someone who is not a member drive an AutoShare car?
No.

How do I find an AutoShare vehicle?
Your online confirmation contains the exact vehicle location and a map of the neighbourhood. Members also have access to a detailed map and fleet list showing this information, which can be printed for easy reference.

Where are the vehicle located?
Please see our Fleet map.

How are fleet locations determined?
AutoShare stations vehicles based on member location, demand, transit access and new member interest. We are regularly growing our fleet to match membership growth.

DRIVING

What kind of vehicles are in the fleet?
AutoShare's fleet is primarily great, efficient vehicles like the Mazda 3; Toyota Yaris & Matrix; Honda Fit and Suzuki Aerio hatchbacks. Our vans are Dodge Cargo Grand Caravans (cargo & 7-passenger). We also have fun cars like the Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper convertible; and Hybrids like the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic. We buy new vehicles every year to grow the fleet, and replace older models after about 3 to 4 years.

Automatic or stick-shift?
All AutoShare cars are automatic (although some recent vehicles like the Mini Cooper also have a manual-shift option). All have air conditioning, too!

How about gas? Do I have to fill it after every use?
Not necessarily. Members are responsible for ensuring the tank is at least half full for the next user. If the gas level gets to 'half', the member fills the tank and submits the receipt to AutoShare to have the cost deducted from their monthly bill.

How do I get into an AutoShare vehicle?
Members have 24-hour “self-serve” access to our vehicles through our security system. Once you have made a reservation, you can gain access and be driving in an instant.

How do I get the keys?
You will get the keys at the car through our self-serve security system.

PAYING YOUR INVOICE

How do I pay?
Each trip's cost is based on the time and distance driven, with rates based on the Monthly Plan that you have selected. The average cost to drive in 2006 has been about $6.25 per hour. (We have Automatic Discounts like Daily rates and overnight rates, too.) Early each month, we will send you an invoice for the previous month. If you choose to Pay Monthly (ie you have a $250 deposit with us), we will then charge your invoice to the credit card that you used to join.

What is "Pay-As-You-Drive"
Some of our Members may have chosen to use our Pay-As-You-Drive system, which bills their credit card after every trip that they take. They will still get a detailed statement of driving, and payments, the following month.

INSURANCE, DAMAGE, LATE RETURNS, TICKETS

How does the insurance work?
AutoShare purchases insurance under a fleet plan that includes All Perils (Collision and Comprehensive), Third Party Liability ($2,000,000), Accident Benefits, Uninsured Automobile Coverage, and Family Protection Endorsement. All members are fully insured when they are driving AutoShare vehicles. In the event of an at-fault accident, the member at fault is responsible for the $500 deductible* and out-of-service costs just as if she were driving a personally-owned vehicle. If the member is deemed not to be at-fault, then there are no costs to be paid.

Is there any way to have a $0 deductible? Maybe via my credit card?
Many credit cards these days provide insurance to the card holder when they rent a car. AutoShare is the first Car Share in the world to arrange to have this insurance available to members who pay their full invoice with an eligible Gold or platinum: VISA Gold card, Citi Mastercard, CapitalONE mastercard or BMO Mosiak Mastercard with Travel option. Eligible cards provide you with a $0 deductible in the event of an accident (versus $500 normally).

Are there other ways to have a $0 deductible?
Yes, AutoShare now offers a $0 deductible option based on a $50 annual fee.

And, I build an Insurance Record?
Members are considered to have been continually covered by AutoShare’s policy for the purposes of getting personal auto insurance. We can provide you with a Letter of Insurance Coverage from our insurance company certifying your coverage history with AutoShare. This is an important consideration because when a car is given up for a period of time, and later there’s a need to acquire another, insurance coverage is often charged at a higher rate – as if one had never had car insurance. This coverage does NOT apply to employee-drivers on a corporate account.

How do we keep track of damage?
The members actually cross-check each other with a visual inspection before and after use.

What if I get a ticket or towed?
Car sharing is about sharing the costs and access to a vehicle. It is not about sharing responsibility for infraction costs. If you get a speeding, parking or other car related ticket, you’ll have to pay for it. If the car is towed or impounded while it is out in your name, you will have to pay for the costs incurred.

What happens if I return a car late?
AutoShare’s system works well because people bring the car back on time. Like a parking ticket, AutoShare fines members who are late to discourage this behaviour.

What If I have a problem to report?
Our 24 hour customer centre is always available to help you with any issue affecting the vehicle or reservation.

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE

How are the cars maintained?
AutoShare maintains a schedule of regular maintenance and inspections to be sure the cars are in good working order. You never have to worry about a thing.

Do I have to clean the cars?
That depends on what you’ve done with the car. The cars will be cleaned on a regular basis by AutoShare, but if you’ve made a mess, you’ll have to clean it. AutoShare will reimburse you for the cost (and some of your time) to take it to a car wash.

MISCELLANEOUS

Can I smoke in the car?
No.

Can I use a car for work-related tasks?
Yes, some members will use a car strictly for work-related tasks, in which case the AutoShare invoice represents a business expense. Self-employed consultants, NGO’s and service firms (architects, engineers, accountants etc...) will find this service a good way to reduce overhead costs.

Can my company join AutoShare?
Yes - for companies with more than 2 drivers, please take a look at our Corporate & NGO rates.

What are your criteria for membership?
To be a member you need to:

1. Be at least 23 years old
2. Have held a valid drivers license for at least three years;
3. Currently hold a full class “G” license or an equivalent;
4. No speeding convictions 40km above speed limit within last 3 years
5. Maximum 4 minor driving infractions within last 3 years (6 points maximum);
6. No more than one (1) at-fault accident in the previous five years;
7. Have no careless driving or criminal driving charges.

How much does it cost to join?
$ 25 Insurance Approval fee + gst
$100 Membership Fee (one time) + gst
$250 Deposit

What is a Household (Joint) Membership?
AutoShare offers a discount to people living as a couple at the same residence. For a $50 Insurance Approval fee and a $150 Membership Fee (plus a $250 Deposit, total) both people can have full AutoShare membership. And, the best part is that you pay a single Monthly Access fee.

What's the "30 Day Trial Period" Money-back Guarantee?
AutoShare's "30 Day Trial Period" means that you can give our service a try for 30 days. If you find that it doesn't work for you, you can get a full refund of Your Membership Fee and Deposit (although your Application fee is non-refundable, and any referral or other driving credits will be reversed, including any credits to another member as part of the referral).

How do I get my Deposit back?
Simply inform AutoShare in writing that you would like to quit. We will process your request, calculate any final invoice, and refund any Deposit within 90 days of your final invoice.

Do I need a credit card to join?
No. You will, however, be requried to make a $250 Deposit AND use our Pay-As-You-Drive system. (Our PAYD system, without a credit card, requires you to make payments to your account, and then use these credits to pay for your reservations as you drive. Without money in your account, you cannot drive.) You will need to Print our application for membership, and download this form and bring it with you when you pick-up your Quick Start Guide.

Can I join with a Drivers License from outside of Ontario?
Yes - You can apply with a License from another Province, or the USA.

For the following Provinces, apply as per usual and then contact [info"at" autoshare.com] to provide us with your date. Since AutoShare can obtain driving records online - with your date of birth - for these, we can process your application quickly:
- Newfoundland & Labrador
- New Brunswick
- Nova Scotia
- P.E.I.

For the remaining Provinces and/or Territories, apply as per usual and then contact [info"at" autoshare.com] to notify us that YOU will be obtaining your Driver's Abstract (which you can do by following the links where available):
- Alberta
- B.C. (ask for your record to be emailed)
- Manitoba
- Saskatchewan
- North West Territories
- Nunavut
- Quebec
- Yukon --- Fax a request (include Birth Date, driver's license number, phone number, VISA credit card number and expiration date, signature, and the fax number to which you would like your record sent) to: (867) 393 6220. or call (867) 667-5315

AutoShare's Fax # is 416.340.0080

Please note: The Government of Ontario does require residents to obtain an Ontario drivers license after 60 days of residency. If you would rather switch to an Ontario license, and then apply to become a member, the Ontario government should count your past experience from another province as part of your driving record. Check out the Ministry of Transportation.

Can I join with a Drivers License from another Country?
Yes - You may be eligible for membership if you can provide proof of a minimum of 3 years driving experience, and if you meet all the other qualifications of membership.

Proof of experience can be either of the following:

1. Obtain written authentication of three years, or more, foreign driving experience from the originating licensing agency, or from the Embassy, Consulate or High Commissioners' offices representing the jurisdiction. The authentication letter must be on official letterhead and be written in either English or French. It must be dated and cannot be more than 6 months old. If the Authentication Letter is in a language other than English or French, it must be accompanied by a Letter of Translation from a qualified translator.
2. Alternately, our insurer may accept your previous insurance history (proof of insurance), a document from your insurance company ensuring that you were covered for a minimum of 3 continuous years and listing any claims you may have had. The coverage must be recent and the policy can not have ended more than 2 months ago. Please note, that depending on the information provided by your insurer, you may need to supply additional documentation to be approved.

Please print out the application and mail or fax it in to us with the above documentation and a clear photocopy of your drivers license. (416 340 0080 - 24 Mercer St. Toronto, ON, M5V 1H3)

The Government of Ontario does require residents to obtain an Ontario drivers license after 60 days of residency. If you would rather switch to an Ontario license, and then apply to become a member, the Ontario government should count your past experience as part of your driving record. If this is the case, Ontario should fast-track you to obtain a full G license straight away. Drivers from most countries outside of Canada will be required to take a written test and an in-car road test in order to obtain an Ontario license. Click here.

Drivers from Austria, Germany, Japan, Republic of Korea, Switzerland, or United States of America* are considered to have reciprocal licenses and should be able to obtain an Ontario license without a road test if they can show 2 or More Years of Driving Experience within the Last Three Years (AutoShare's requirement is 3 years of experience for our insurer's approval). Check here for the documentation you will need when exchanging your license. If you have a license from a reciprocal country and 3 or More Years of Driving Experience, we recommend that you go to the College Park Driver and Vehicle Licence Issuing Offices, located in College Park, Market Level, 777 Bay Street, Toronto M5G 2C8 (South-east corner of Bay and College). Hours of operation are Mon to Fri 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This office is operated by ServiceOntario. *Please note: applicants from Illinois, New Jersey and Vermont must provide a driving abstract dated within 6 months.

How do I join?

1. Complete an Application and return it to AutoShare
2. We will obtain your Driver’s Abstract, check it against our insurance criteria, and notify you within 2 business days.
3. Your Quick Start Guide can then be picked up at our office, or mailed to your local Postal Station for pick-up

How long does it take to join?
From Application to driving usually takes about 2 business days

How do I know if AutoShare works for me?
AutoShare works well for people who:
- Don’t need a car everyday to get to work;
- Drive less than 12,000 km / year;
- Have had a full class "G" license (or similar) for 3 years;
- Are at least 23 years old;

Will a car be available every time?
In a perfect world, yes. However, in the real world, we have maintained a minimum fulfillment rate of 95%. Again, access to the entire fleet helps ensure that you can usually access a car to meet your needs, although it may not be your first choice.

Is AutoShare cheaper than renting a car?
Yes – it’s cheaper than renting for periods less than 24 hours. AutoShare is designed for trips that last a matter of hours, life’s everyday errands. BUT, AutoShare is NOT designed to be the cheapest rental car agency in town. We do offer members Automatic Discounts on longer trips, which are comparable to the cost of renting. Members also receive discounts from Discount Car & Truck Rentals, Enterprise and Budget Rent-a-car for their longer trips. And remember, insurance and gas are included in our prices.

How much money can I save by joining?
Your savings by joining depends directly on how much you drive. Most members spend less on AutoShare than they did on insurance alone. We believe that if you don’t drive to work everyday, you will save money with AutoShare. For more information on how much you can save visit our Comparing Prices page.

Is it true that I build an insurance record with AutoShare ?
Yes, it’s true. If you leave the service we can provide you with a letter of coverage from our insurance company ($50), although this does not apply to employee-drivers of corporate accounts.

Why would anyone leave AutoShare?
Darn good question. AutoShare has about 20% customer-turnover in a typical year. (For every 5 people that join, 1 leaves.) Typically, here is why they leavet:

26% Moving out of Toronto
20% Acquired car (e.g. spouse, inherited etc..)
17% Misc. (not related to service quality/cost)
15% Lifestyle has become completely car-free
12% Had to buy car for new job
10% AutoShare too expensive
  3% AutoShare didn’t work for me
  2% Were inconsiderate – asked to leave

What are the benefits of Car Sharing?
- For Members – it means low cost access to a car when you really need one, without the whole debt load of owning and hassles of car maintenance.
- For the Environment – it means improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gases and eventually, less asphalt.
- For our Communities – it means safer streets, more support for transit, less traffic congestion and better mobility for everyone, especially low income earners.

Are there other car sharing organizations?
Yes, there are car sharing organizations throughout Europe and North America, with new ones launching all the time. For Canada, you’ll find an up-to-date list at CarSharing.ca

Rates & Payment

How much does insurance cost?
$0 – all insurance & gas costs are included (although you may reduce your at-fault deductible from $500 to $0 through the use of a "gold" credit card or a $50 annual fee.)

What does “Automatically Save on Long Trips” mean?
Longer trips are eligible for Automatic Discounts (flat rates), saving you up to 55%. The lowest rate for each trip will be always be applied, meaning sometimes it's cheaper to pay for 24 hours even if you only drive for 8 hours - but travel a great distance.

When does it cost $1/hr?
The cost to drive is only $1/hr (Standard and Advantage plans) for use between 12am – 7am, anyday (except on mini vans, which cost about $2 / hr), plus any charges for the kilometres.

Can I switch Plans?
Yes, you can switch your Plan anytime (changes take effect the next month). Switching to the Simple Plan, after your first year, will require a once-per-year fee of $35.

How do I pay?
Each trip's cost is based on the time and distance driven, with rates based on the Monthly Plan that you have selected. The average cost to drive in 2006 has been about $6.25 per hour. (We have Automatic Discounts like Daily rates and overnight rates, too.) At the end of the month we will send you an invoice, and you can pay it the following month via credit card, PAD, cheque or even cash/debit card.

What is "Pay-As-You-Drive"
Some of our Members may have chosen to use our Pay-As-You-Drive system, which bills their credit card after every trip that they take. They will still get a detailed statement of driving, and payments, including any amounts still owing the following month.

What other fees are involved?
If you have been a responsible and courteous driver, none. AutoShare does have a system of late fines, similar to parking tickets, to encourage members to respect their reservations. Please see our Terms and Conditions.

The Fleet and Locations

Can baby seats be used in the cars?
Yes. We currently have child seat anchors installed in all cars.

And what about bike racks?
AutoShare does not yet have a system for storing and borrowing bike racks.

Can I bring my pet in a car?
Yes, 80% of our cars are 'Pet Accessible' but you must use a pet carrier, dog blanket etc… and vacuum as necessary. All cars must be treated with respect and there should never be any sign of your pet when your trip is finished. Please note that about 20% are Pet Free, and no pets may be brought with you.

AutoShare for Business (Corporations, NGO's & Government)

Will AutoShare works for us?
AutoShare works well for staff who:
- Have appointments throughout the GTA
- Drive less than 12,000 km / year
- Get reimbursed for kilometers
- Spend a lot on taxis
- Don’t want to drive their personal cars for business

How often can we drive?
As often or as long as you like.

Will a car be available every time?
If you use our “Exclusive Access” service, yes. For our regular Corporate & Non-Profit service, we have maintained a minimum fulfillment rate of 95%. Advanced booking and access to the entire fleet helps ensure that you can almost always access a car to meet your needs.

What is “Exclusive Access”
Exclusive Access provides your corporations with a Virtual Fleet – all the benefits of a corporate fleet, without the headaches and costs of maintaining one. Within our 'core operating area', AutoShare will station any number of vehicles for use at or near your company, and your employees will have full, dedicated access to these vehicles during business hours (8am – 6pm, Monday to Friday) for a fixed rate. Gas & insurance are included! And if you need access to more vehicles, your employees can always drive other AutoShare vehicles at regular rates.

How much does AutoShare-for-Business cost?
- $ 25 Insurance Approval fee (per driver, one-time to a max. of $250)
- $100 Membership Fee (one time)

- $ 25 per Month + $7.50/hr to Drive (weekdays | $9.50/hr weekends)

For Exclusive Access (An AutoShare vehicle dedicated just to your organization) call us for more information.

Can employees drive for personal trips?
AutoShare leaves it up to the organization to sort out what kind of access their employees have (like a cell phone or credit card). They are certainly welcome to take personal trips and reimburse the company. We also offer a discount on personal membership to anyone already enrolled as an employee-driver, full membership for only $25.