With the recent surge in car-sharing programs and collaborations between big car manufacturers and peer-to-peer programs (such as Ford with Zipcar) General Motors wasn’t content to be left behind. GM and RelayRides—a San Francisco-based car-sharing specialist—have partnered up to establish a car-sharing program using GM’s OnStar technology.
According to GM’s head of business development initiatives, Bob Tiderington, all cars built after 2010 that have OnStar technology will be peer-to-peery ready. Thus, GM car owners who want to join RelayRides’ car-sharing program can do so quickly via a few mouse clicks rather than having to install any separate devices to gain entry and use of the vehicle.
With this new program, GM and RelayRides hope to appeal to the next generation of car buyers—the Millennials—who are, according to BrandChannel, much less excited about owning cars and the act of driving itself.
Automaker Car-Sharing Collabs
GM and RelayRides Team Up for Efficient Peer-to-Peer Program
Trend Themes
1. Car-sharing Collaborations - As car-sharing programs become more popular, big car manufacturers can partner with peer-to-peer programs and use technology for easy access and efficiency.
2. Integrated Onstar Technology - Car manufacturers can attract younger car buyers by incorporating OnStar technology for a seamless car-sharing program experience.
3. Millennial Car-sharing Preferences - Car manufacturers can cater to Millennial preferences for car-sharing rather than car ownership, by establishing car-sharing programs with peer-to-peer companies.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Car manufacturers can create innovative car-sharing programs and consider collaborations with peer-to-peer companies.
2. Technology - Technology firms can develop new integrated solutions for easy access and efficiency in car-sharing programs.
3. Sharing Economy - Peer-to-peer companies can collaborate with car manufacturers to provide a seamless car-sharing program experience for Millennial customers.