Grand Rapids launches DART CarShare, vehicle rentals for $5 per hour

Grand Rapids launches DART CarShare, vehicle rentals for $5 per hour

Published on October 17, 2024

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - The City of Grand Rapids' Mobile GR Department today announced the launch of its DART GR "(D)rive (AR)ound (T)own (GR)and Rapids" electric vehicle (EV) CarShare program, offering residents and visitors a convenient and affordable transportation option. With a rental fee of only $5 per hour, the CarShare program aims to eliminate the barrier of car ownership for short-term transportation needs.

Open to individuals aged 21 and older with a valid driver's license, clean driving record, and a valid credit, debit, or pre-paid card, the DART GR pilot program currently offers five, four-door 2023 Chevrolet Bolts for rent. These vehicles are stationed at electric charging stations strategically located throughout the city, including the West Fulton Lot, Madison Square Lot, Eastown Ethel Lot, Weston Commerce Ramp and Government Center Ramp. A sixth vehicle will be added to the Burton Division Lot by the end of the year.

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, "For many, especially those who don't own a car, getting around the city can be a challenge. This carshare program provides a flexible, reliable alternative to bridge that gap. Whether you need a car for a few hours or just to run a few quick errands, this initiative puts convenience in the hands of our community."

Accessing the carshare program is simple and straightforward. Interested individuals can create an account through the program's app (available at Dartgr.org and through the Android / iOS as "MDO Carshare"), upload photos of their driver's license, as well as a payment method and await membership processing, which typically takes a few days. Once approved, users can reserve a vehicle in advance using the app or website, unlock the vehicle at the reserved time, and begin their trip. Upon completion, the car can be returned to the original station and plugged in to the charger to end the trip.

The program offers competitive rates, including a one-time nonrefundable application fee of $10 for checking driving records. The hourly rate is $5. The first 150 miles are included, with additional miles incurring a charge of $.45 per mile.

Mobile GR Director Jessica Smith emphasized the program's alignment with the City's strategic goals, particularly in promoting sustainability and affordable mobility options for low- and moderate-income residents. Smith stated, "This program will provide a low-cost transportation option for many residents all over Grand Rapids. This program also promotes environmental sustainability by expanding EV charging infrastructure."

To support the CarShare program, the City partnered with Consumers Energy to install new EV infrastructure in the CarShare lots.

Each lot now features a dual-port charger, with one charger dedicated to CarShare and the other available to the public, reservable and payable through the MOTU application.

"Consumers Energy is proud to work with the City of Grand Rapids and applauds their commitment to clean transportation," said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy's vice president of customer experience. "This program is another example of how EVs can provide everyday benefits to our friends and neighbors across Michigan while helping protect the planet."

For more information and updates on the new DART CarShare program, please visit the City of Grand Rapids' Mobile GR Department website or contact 311 Customer Service at 616-456-3000 or 311.

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