ZEV, a car-sharing cooperative that offers electric vehicles in Western Washington, is working to make sustainable transit accessible to all by partnering with local nonprofits and government entities to add vehicles to its fleet. With a mission to reach 250 cars by the end of 2027, ZEV offers co-op memberships for individuals and groups, with reduced hourly rates and perks such as advance reservations, year-end dividends, and voting rights on company decisions. Current participants include Town and Country Markets, the City of Port Townsend, Estelita’s Library, and affordable housing providers. ZEV’s approach, which includes hands-on and personalized support, is unique but labor-intensive, making scaling a challenge.
ZEV is filling a gap left by other car-sharing companies that have shut down due to financial struggles, offering electric vehicles at affordable rates to underserved communities. The company, founded in 2021 and supported by public funds including grants from the Zero-Emissions Access Program and the U.S. Department of Energy, is addressing the need for sustainable transportation options in the Seattle area. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency’s report identified transportation as the primary cause of pollution in the region, particularly impacting low-income communities and communities of color. ZEV aims to provide an accessible solution to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality.
Through partnerships with local organizations like Estelita’s Library, ZEV is reaching community members who may be distrustful of new technologies and are unable to afford electric vehicles. By offering reduced co-op rates for use of electric vehicles, ZEV is enabling members to access eco-friendly transportation for various purposes such as medical appointments, camping trips, and moving between houses without the added cost of fuel or electricity. The company’s focus on community engagement and support is essential to its success in bringing electric vehicle options to underserved populations.
With plans to expand its fleet and reach more users, ZEV is working to establish a self-sustaining model that can support growth and scale the business across Western Washington. Founder Greg Dronkert, with his background in transportation and marine services, is determined to make the project successful despite the challenges. As an alternative to other car-sharing options in the area, including Zipcar and peer-to-peer rentals like Turo and Getaround, ZEV offers affordable rates and a focus on community partnerships to provide accessible and sustainable transportation solutions for all members of the community.
As Washington state pushes for increased EV adoption and addresses climate change concerns, ZEV’s initiative aligns with the state’s goals of reducing vehicle emissions and promoting sustainable transportation alternatives. By offering electric vehicles through a cooperative model, ZEV is making eco-friendly transit more accessible to individuals and organizations in Western Washington. While the company relies on public funds to support its operations, it is working towards financial sustainability and partnerships that will enable it to grow and expand its reach in the region, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for all community members.
