My husband and I have recently become Zipcar members and really see this as a viable alternative for us urban dwellers. We pay a small annual fee and then an hourly rate for use. DH's firm sponsors memberships for all the partners and staff. I have a separate personal membership. Under each plan, gas, mileage and insurance are included. Recently I went to Seattle with some friends and we only needed a car for a few hours to explore some outlying areas. Because of the reservation and member card system, it worked better for us than renting a car.

Right now the Zipcars are located in major cities and university towns, but I can see them spreading to more places. The car models range from Mini-Coopers to BMWs. I even saw a small Toyota truck with the Zipcar logo on the side. I guess someone was moving.

I know that there are other carshare programs, but Zipcar has more cars/locations near us. Here's their website if anyone wants to learn more: www.zipcar.com/