Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., taking steps to further zero-emission mobility, and the City of Yokohama in Japan have introduced a round-trip car sharing service featuring the Nissan New Mobility Concept, an ultra-compact electric vehicle (EV).
The service, “Choimobi Yokohama,” enables users who register online to pick up and return cars in 14 locations around Yokohama Station. As reported, cars can be reserved 30 minutes in advance and can be driven within the city.
Nissan and Yokohama previously conducted a two-year trial of Japan’s first one-way car sharing service using ultra-compact EVs, starting in October 2013. The aim was to encourage low-emission transport options, improve the quality of transportation and promote tourism. In October 2015, the partnership began renting cars to local tour operators and businesses.
According to Nissan, the new round-trip service is meant to further promote ultra-compact mobility and build a sustainable business model through public-private cooperation. The service will also include guided tours around central Yokohama and long-term car rentals for businesses.
Nissan says it will continue to work with the City of Yokohama to conduct usability and feasability studies by encouraging various local entities to join the program.