Registered car sharing users Germany 2014-2024

In 2024 thus far, there were around 5.5 million car sharing users in Germany. This was another noticeable increase compared to roughly 4.47 million the year before. Figures increased almost annually during the specified timeline. The break in 2020 was due to the restrictions on mobility and travel during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

How does it work?

The term car sharing means the organized communal use of one or more cars, and is one example of a growing sharing economy around the world. Car sharing may be a practical solution for city dwellers not looking to buy a car, who drive only occasionally. Aside from details pertaining to individual car sharing companies, generally, the system works the same way anywhere. A company provides a certain number of cars, users typically download an app to their smartphone to be able to use the service (though they might also book a vehicle via a website or a phone call). The car is then opened with the respective app, customer card or a key. Billing is based either on minutes, distance covered, both or a flat rate. Cars are used by multiple customers. Private car sharing is also an option. Rural areas are usually not covered.

Conquering consumers

Car sharing is still a fairly young market in Germany, with strong growth potential, though not without challenges. Interest in car sharing has waned somewhat in recent years, judging by surveys. In 2023, around 8 million people in Germany confirmed their interest, compared to roughly 8.3 million the year before. Meanwhile, the number of car sharing companies has increased steadily in recent years, with 293 operating in the country thus far in 2024.