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# Zipcar – Innovative Car Sharing Service in Philadelphia

Zipcar, a leading car-sharing service in Philadelphia, PA, offers a unique solution for urban residents needing occasional vehicle access without the burdens of ownership. Established to provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional car rental, Zipcar allows users to reserve vehicles by the hour or day, making it ideal for city dwellers who require a car for errands, road trips, or special occasions. With a focus on convenience, the Zipcar app enables seamless reservations and vehicle access. Despite its innovative approach, user reviews highlight a mix of experiences, showcasing both the service's potential and its challenges in reliability and customer service.

## History

### The story of Zipcar

Zipcar was founded in 2000 with the vision of transforming urban mobility by providing a flexible and affordable alternative to car ownership. The founders recognized that many city residents faced the dilemma of needing a vehicle occasionally but did not want the financial burden of owning one. By introducing a model that allowed users to rent cars on-demand, Zipcar aimed to reduce congestion and promote sustainable transportation options.

### Milestones and growth
- **2000**: Zipcar is founded in Boston, Massachusetts.
- **2007**: The company expands to Philadelphia, introducing its services to urban residents.
- **2010**: Zipcar goes public, further increasing its visibility and market reach.
- **2013**: The company is acquired by Avis Budget Group, enhancing its fleet and operational capabilities.
- **2020**: Zipcar continues to expand its presence in urban areas, adapting to the growing demand for car-sharing services.

### Cultural and local influence
Zipcar has significantly influenced urban transportation culture by promoting car-sharing as a viable alternative to ownership. In Philadelphia, it has contributed to reducing the number of cars on the road, encouraging residents to reconsider their transportation needs. The service aligns with the city's sustainability goals, supporting a shift towards eco-friendly commuting options.

### Continuing the tradition
As Zipcar evolves, it continues to adapt its offerings to meet the changing needs of urban residents. The company focuses on enhancing user experience through technology, expanding its fleet with electric vehicles, and fostering community engagement. By maintaining its commitment to convenience and sustainability, Zipcar aims to remain a leader in the car-sharing industry.

## Community

### Community involvement
Zipcar actively engages with local communities in Philadelphia by participating in events and initiatives that promote sustainable transportation. The company collaborates with local organizations to raise awareness about car-sharing benefits and supports community programs that encourage eco-friendly practices. This involvement helps strengthen the connection between Zipcar and the residents it serves.

### Community notion about the place
The community's perception of Zipcar is mixed. While many appreciate the convenience and flexibility it offers, others express frustration with service reliability and customer support. Reviews indicate that some users have had positive experiences with the ease of booking and vehicle access, while others have faced significant challenges, leading to a divided opinion about the service's overall effectiveness.

### Events and gatherings
Zipcar often sponsors or participates in local events that promote car-sharing and sustainable transportation. These gatherings provide opportunities for community members to learn more about the service, share their experiences, and engage in discussions about urban mobility. By fostering these connections, Zipcar aims to enhance its community presence and address user concerns directly.

## Offerings

### What Zipcar offers
Zipcar provides a range of vehicles for hourly or daily rental, catering to various needs from compact cars for city driving to larger vehicles for group outings. Users can easily reserve cars through the Zipcar app, which also facilitates unlocking and starting the vehicle. This innovative approach to car rental emphasizes convenience and accessibility for urban residents.

### Dining and food experience
While Zipcar itself does not offer dining options, its vehicles provide easy access to Philadelphia's vibrant culinary scene. Users can conveniently travel to various restaurants, cafes, and food markets throughout the city, making it a practical choice for food enthusiasts looking to explore local dining options without the hassle of car ownership.

### Events and packages
Zipcar offers various packages tailored to different user needs, including discounts for frequent users and special rates for corporate clients. Additionally, the service often promotes events that encourage users to take advantage of car-sharing for group outings, road trips, or community activities, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Facilities and features
- **User-friendly app**: Easy reservations and vehicle access.
- **Diverse vehicle fleet**: Options ranging from compact cars to larger vehicles.
- **Insurance included**: Coverage for users during rentals.
- **Gas included**: Fuel costs covered within rental rates.
- **24/7 customer support**: Assistance available for users at any time.

## Pros and Cons

### Key insights from reviews
User reviews of Zipcar highlight both positive and negative experiences. Many appreciate the convenience of having access to a vehicle without the responsibilities of ownership. However, recurring issues with vehicle availability and customer service have led to dissatisfaction among some users.

### Compliments and strengths
Positive feedback often centers around the ease of reserving a car and the flexibility it provides for urban residents. Users frequently mention the affordability of hourly rentals and the convenience of the app, which simplifies the booking process and vehicle access. For those who need occasional transportation, Zipcar can be a valuable resource.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
On the other hand, numerous reviews point out significant issues with service reliability. Users report problems such as reserved vehicles being unavailable, poor vehicle maintenance, and inadequate customer support. These contrasts highlight the need for Zipcar to address operational challenges to improve user satisfaction and maintain its reputation.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Zipcar presents a compelling option for urban residents seeking flexible transportation solutions. While it offers numerous advantages, including convenience and affordability, the service must work on improving reliability and customer service to enhance the user experience and retain its customer base.

## Location & Nearby Attractions

Zipcar operates throughout Philadelphia, PA, providing residents with easy access to vehicles across the city. Located in the heart of the city, users can find Zipcar vehicles conveniently positioned near popular neighborhoods and attractions. Philadelphia is known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and vibrant arts scene, making it an ideal city for exploring with the flexibility of a rental car. Residents can travel to iconic sites such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and various museums, all while enjoying the convenience of Zipcar's services.

## FAQs

**What is Zipcar** Zipcar is a car-sharing service that allows users to rent vehicles by the hour or day.

**How do I reserve a Zipcar** Users can reserve a Zipcar through the mobile app or website.

**Are insurance and gas included** Yes, both insurance and gas are included in the rental price.

**What types of vehicles are available** Zipcar offers a diverse fleet, including compact cars, sedans, and vans.

**Is there customer support available** Yes, Zipcar provides 24/7 customer support for users.

## Visit Zipcar Today

Zipcar in Philadelphia offers a unique and convenient solution for urban transportation needs. With a focus on flexibility, affordability, and community engagement, it provides residents with easy access to vehicles without the burdens of ownership. Despite mixed reviews regarding service reliability, Zipcar remains a popular choice for those seeking occasional vehicle access. Whether for errands, road trips, or exploring the city's vibrant culture, Zipcar is a valuable resource for Philadelphia residents.

9bc4c646-5512-4489-b368-b99eb8338226

I think it's about time I review zipcar here on yelp. As part of the wave of new ridesharing and carsharing services, zipcar really stands out as an innovative, cost effective replacement for car ownership. For several years, I owned a car in the city, but living in the city the cost is not worth it. However, it's important to have access to a car at times, for road trips out of the city, trips to King of Prussia, or grocery shopping. The ease of reserving a car by the hour or day in the Zipcar app on my iPhone or on the website is unbeatable. Reserve a car for around $10 per hour or $90 per 24-hour period and that includes gas (180 miles per 24 hrs) and insurance. The process of picking up and dropping off the car is simple - just tap your zipcard on the card reader and you're in. In summary, would highly recommend Zipcar for anyone without a car or with occasional need for an extra vehicle.

2026e958-8863-48bd-866a-777825d1cb2d

This be used ZipCar 7 times and EVERY SINGLE TIME something goes wrong. Today I reserved a car that's a block from my house. But I got a text that instead I reserved a car 7 blocks from my house. The one that I have today, one time wasn't even there. Another time, same car, they keys were missing. Another time, same car, the front tire was flat. One time they switched the reservation from the car that's a block away to one that was 3 MILES away. Sure 3 miles isn't far when you live in rural India, but I walk to get the car. Customer service reps have attitude and short. For reference, I used Philly Car Share (later Enterprise Car Share) from 2007 through 2020 and only had one problem with a rental. There are no alternatives in Philadelphia so we have to take the crap we can get.

e04b7d02-d069-403a-aec1-cfc0ae149094

this shitty service stopped all the EVs not apart of the program from being able to charge.

99520d1b-8bf3-4bc7-9afe-5e32f7ff8e59

I'd give them 0 stars if I could. About 6 weeks ago I reserved a Zip car. There is supposed to be one parked about 2 blocks from where I live, so I reserved that one. The morning of my reservation, I received a call telling me that the car I had reserved wasn't available. The closest available car was more than 1/2 a mile away. That may not sound like a lot, but when you're 81 and have arthritis, it's a long walk, and it made me late for the appointment that I needed the car for. I should have known better, but I needed a car again yesterday so I reserved the car at the location around 2 blocks away. This time I didn't even have the courtesy of a call. I arrived at the location...no car. When I called Zipcar, they told me that it was parked nearly a mile away. This time, I just called Enterprise. They were very helpful, and to my surprise, the car was less expensive than the Zip car would have been. I want to cancel my membership. They don't want to refund my membership fee. Needless to say that I won't use Zip cars again.

b26c7970-a268-4c24-8530-a34bcd30bdd9

Zipcar fixed my banishment for life after I contacted BBB. I'm ok with Zipcar again, and it is mutual, but the restrictive round trip policy inconvenience motivated me to buy a car, so now I have a car, and rare occasion to use Zipcar. I hope someday they can operate in the US more akin to the Indego Bike program (or UK Zipcars) with one way trip convenience.

b9b4e615-cdd0-490f-be2d-5d2aead23305

I was charged a late fee of $115 for a car I didn't take out! Beware of these scammers.

3047a002-0375-4202-80f3-9366c6e38180

Actually a nightmare! This was my first experience with zip car and certainly my last. I'd check if Turo is available in your area as I had a much better experience through that service. 1. The first car I got was filthy (trash, dirt and stains everywhere). There was a hole worn in the floor on the driver side. The gas was below the required 1/4 tank. The gas card was missing so I had to pay out of pocket for gas with no clear instructions on how or when I'd be reimbursed. The car was covered, every side, in significant dents and scratches. I had to search through the car to find the key because the lanyard that was supposed to attach it to the dash was broken. Then about an hour into my trip after stopping for coffee another driver alerted me that one of the break lights was out. Obviously this is a problem as I could be ticketed and it's a safety hazard. I called customer service and the agent did not seem to understand giving someone a car without proper working break lights was a problem. The agent then informed me my only option was to drive the car back to the pick up location, which is now an hour away, and then go to a new car to continue my trip. (I had booked the car with the intent of going to multiple out of town meetings for work). The agent told me to call after my first meeting and the new vehicle could be arranged. So I called and was informed nothing could be done until I was back at the pick up location. I then cancelled my second meeting to take the 2 hour detour to get a different car. When I called after dropping the car off, the vehicle previously discussed as a replacement was no longer available and I my only option was a vehicle significantly farther from my home. Zip car offered no flexibility even after I explained I was concerned for my safety as my trip would end late at night and it would not be safe for me to walk home from the area the car was located. Given no other choice I accepted the second car. I also had to request the first car be removed from the app for booking as it immediately was relisted without zip car addressing any of the issues including the broken brake light. I requested a call from a supervisor regarding a discount etc as the issues with the car had significantly derailed my day, including the 2 hour detour to return the call, I was promised a call back within the hour. No call was ever received. 2. The second car was somehow dirtier than the first and smelled of cigarette smoke covered by a strong cheap air freshener. There was garbage left in the vehicle, what appeared to be spilled soda all over the center console. Splattered, what I assume was food, across the dash, ceiling and windshield. The gas was again less than the required 1/4 tank and this time close to empty. The gas card was once again missing so I had to pay out of pocket without clear instructions on how or when I would be reimbursed. Upon turning on the car, I was alerted there were issues with the tire pressure, traction system and an additional system. I again called zip car and this time was informed there were no other cars and I could drive this one or cancel the trip. Hesitant to cancel the remainder of my obligations I began my trip. I then discovered that there was an issue with the car where I could not lock the vehicle from the zip car app. This meant each time I wanted to leave the vehicle I had to call zip car, go through the automated prompts, verify my identity, and request that someone lock the car for me. This was incredibly inconvenient especially when I returned home after 2:30 in the morning and had to call multiple times before being connected with an agent. The cherry on top was seeing once I got home that I had actually been charged for the second car.... I again asked to speak with a manger etc and was told they cannot do so b/c call volume was too high (hmm wonder why) So let this save you the numerous headaches I suffered.

dbda0cef-372c-4af6-b8ee-32829511f34c

I use to be a Zipcar member a few years ago. They had amazing customer service back then. Not the case anymore. They took my money, of course, to renew my membership. The issue? It's been two months, and several hours of hold time, trying to get my initial zip card to activate my membership. This is ridiculous. Email threads lead no way, hold times are beyond 40 minutes. At this point, I just want a refund, and I'll be sure to tell everyone how awful the service has become. Very sad indeed

92e81080-0983-48e1-a23e-1417784549a2

Car maintenance is non-existent. Vehicles in hazardous conditions and... very stinky. Today, I had to deal with a flat tire, added pressure so that I could return the car safely to its initial location, called Zipcar four times. They provided me with an alternate vehicles 6 blocks away. I walked there, there was an empty parking spot. No apologies, no credit. I was told they would graciously "extend" my trip by one hour (I had already wasted two hours on the previous "trip"). I felt soooo grateful I cancelled my membership. But 30 minutes later they called me back and asked me if I wanted the second vehicle, that turned out to be improperly parked. I do not like Zip cars, not under the rain, not with a flat tire, not with four flat tires, not with dog hair, not with a foul stench, not in my neighborhood, not 6 blocks away, not in the dark, not with a fox. Drive them yourself if you can.

c10fa65d-03ef-4410-ab51-a0644815f3d8

Be aware! Zipcar will charge you for an application & not accept you for no reason. After reading some of the reviews I'm happy they didn't accept me. By the way I have an excellent driving record.

Discover Zipcar in Philadelphia's 19107 area for convenient, eco-friendly car rentals. Explore the city effortlessly—reserve your ride today and start your adventure.

Zipcar in Philadelphia 19107 - Eco-Friendly Car Rentals

Philadelphia

Zipcar

Pennsylvania

Discover Zipcar in Philadelphia, PA. Convenient car rentals, flexible plans & easy booking. Drive around Philly with Zipcar today!

Zipcar Experience – Car Rentals & More in Philadelphia, PA

Learn about Zipcar in Philadelphia, PA. Leading car sharing service offering eco-friendly options, flexible memberships & urban mobility solutions.

About Zipcar in Philadelphia, PA

Opening hours for Zipcar in Philadelphia, PA. Find Zipcar's location and hours on 19107 for easy access to urban mobility solutions.

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Tacodelphia

New Era Cuisine

Neighborhood Ramen