The Pandemic Implications for Carsharing: An Italian Context

Abstract

Carsharing, as an innovative mobility option, can potentially support the urban transition towards a more sustainable mobility system and achieving sustainable development goals. This short communication aims at providing the status of carsharing services in Italy, with a focus on Turin, before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, an overview of the role of carsharing in urban traffic is provided. Then, carsharing services in Italy before and after the pandemic are mapped. Accordingly, the implications of the pandemic outbreak for carsharing services are discussed. The provided insights confirm that although carsharing services have been affected by the pandemic, even after returning to normal life, the usage of carsharing is still far below its pre-pandemic level in Italy. Finally, to support sustainable mobility and incentivize using shared mobility services, a research agenda for further research is proposed, targeting the research gaps regarding (i) the factors leading to lower usage of carsharing after the pandemic, (ii) potential solutions and policies to support carsharing services return to their pre-pandemic level and exceeding it, and (iii) examining the impact of provided supports by governments during the pandemic, such as bonuses for purchasing bikes and scooters, on the adoption of carsharing services for the post-pandemic era.