Subsidized Electric Carsharing: Can BlueLA Meet the Needs of Low-Income Travelers in Los Angeles

Brief
Julene Paul | Miriam Pinski | Madeline Brozen | Evelyn Blumenberg
January 2024

Car ownership is associated with numerous positive outcomes for people with limited means. Yet the high cost of car ownership is prohibitive for many low-income households. Carsharing programs — subscription-based services that allow drivers to rent vehicles as needed — present a promising alternative to car ownership. They provide households with access to vehicles without the financial burden of ownership. This study collected qualitative data from BlueLA members to evaluate whether subsidized carsharing services can effectively address the accessibility needs of low-income travelers.