BUMPER TO BUMPER

Share the Ride
Urban-dwellers who have only the occasional need for a car have discovered the joys of Zipcar, a service whereby members pick up vehicles from designated spots in various cities and run their errands, get out of town or do whatever they please, for a small fee.
Here in Arizona, Zipcars are parked at Arizona State University’s Tempe and Downtown campuses. More than 30 makes and models are available, and range from Mini Coopers to Priuses, minivans to pickup trucks.

Zipcars can be reserved by the hour or by the day. Rates start at $9.25 per hour or $67 per day in the Phoenix area, and include the cost of maintenance, insurance, parking and gas. Membership is $50 per year, with a $25 application fee when you first sign up. To join, you must be 21 and have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Zipcar.com; 866-4ZIPCAR.