Co Wheels are sorry to hear of Zipcar’s decision to wind down its UK operations in London by the end of 2025. It’s a devastating blow to their staff and 650,000 members, who have been left with no alternative. Zipcar has played an important role in helping many Londoners access shared mobility over the years, and its departure is a reminder of the wider challenges facing our sector.

Running a sustainable car-sharing service in London has become increasingly difficult. Rising costs from parking permits and on-street bay fees to electricity, insurance and congestion charges place significant pressure on operators. These costs have prevented companies like Co Wheels from expanding into London, hindering any opportunity for a multi-operator approach.

As things stand today, Co Wheels has yet to expand its service into London - a direct consequence of these prohibitive costs. But we will review that in the light of Zipcar withdrawing from London.

We remain committed to making shared mobility work across the UK. But we believe this moment highlights the need for a renewed conversation for car-sharing to work in the Capital. For shared transport to thrive and to truly compete with private car ownership, policies must actively support sustainable alternatives.

Fairer permit pricing and lower congestion zone pricing are just a start in making car-sharing reach its full potential and will ensure London can support multiple operators, offering real choice for residents.

We encourage London’s local authorities and policymakers to recognise the benefits which well-managed car-sharing brings, including reduced congestion, lower emissions, and fewer vehicles on our streets, and to help create an environment that allows operators to set up and grow.