Microsimulation of Organised Car Sharing – Model Predications and Policy Implications.

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a range of tests of organised car sharing schemes. The performance of the schemes is predicted using a sophisticated microsimulation model. A brief resume of the model is followed by a description of the tests and an analysis of their results. Conclusions are drawn on the place of organised car sharing within broader transport policies, the performance of the model when compared to the available empirical data and directions for public research. The tests here presented include: a series of sensitivity analyses; tests of organisational strategies for car sharing schemes; tests of schemes in a variety of locations and at a variety of scales and finally a batch of tests which investigate the effect of major changes in the operating environment of car sharing schemes - changes in the price of fuel and public transport fares and the provision of parking space incentives for car sharers for example