What has gone wrong at Zipcar – and is UK car-sharing market dead?

The GuardianThursday, December 4, 2025 at 1:52:43 PM
What has gone wrong at Zipcar – and is UK car-sharing market dead?
  • Zipcar announced it will cease UK operations starting January 1, 2026, leaving groups like Rotherhithe Community Kitchen without access to essential vehicles for delivering meals to vulnerable residents. This decision has disrupted the volunteer group's plans, which had relied on Zipcar's car-sharing services for two years.
  • The closure of Zipcar's UK operations raises concerns about the viability of the car-sharing market in the country, highlighting challenges faced by vehicle hire firms in London and potentially signaling a shift in consumer preferences or operational difficulties in the sector.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
UK-EU youth mobility scheme could let tens of thousands live and work abroad
PositiveWorld Affairs
UK ministers are working towards finalizing a youth mobility scheme with the EU by the end of 2026, which would allow tens of thousands of young British and European citizens to live and work in each other's countries. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reset Britain's relationship with Europe following its exit from the EU six years ago.
Daggers, dervishes, Rego and the world’s most expensive egg – the week in art
PositiveWorld Affairs
The British Museum showcases a Sufi spirit exhibit, while Henry VIII’s lost Ottoman dagger is featured at Strawberry Hill House in London until February 15. Additionally, the art of Rego is being renewed, and a Fabergé egg has set a new record for being the world’s most expensive egg.
Barbican revamp to give ‘bewildering’ arts centre a new lease of life
PositiveWorld Affairs
The Barbican, a renowned arts centre in London, is set to undergo a significant revamp aimed at improving navigation and accessibility. Philippa Simpson, the director of buildings and renewal, highlighted the challenges posed by water leaks and the overall condition of the venue as part of the renovation efforts for the 43-year-old landmark.
‘Constant stimulation, dopamine overload’: how EsDeeKid and UK underground rap exploded on a global scale
PositiveWorld Affairs
In early November, London's Electric Ballroom hosted a vibrant performance by Liverpool rapper EsDeeKid, who captivated a young audience with his energetic stage presence and unique sound. The event highlighted the rising popularity of UK underground rap, particularly as American rap faces challenges, suggesting a potential resurgence of British influence in the music scene.
Rising racism blamed for collapse in number of foreign nurses coming to UK
NegativeWorld Affairs
The number of overseas nurses and midwives registering to practice in the UK has plummeted, with only 6,321 registrations between April and September 2025, a stark decline from 12,534 in the same period the previous year. This drop has been attributed to rising racism and changes in immigration rules.
UK’s new digital-only immigration system creating exclusion and fear, study finds
NegativeWorld Affairs
The UK's new digital-only immigration system, which mandates that nearly all migrants obtain an eVisa to prove their legal status, has been found to induce significant stress, fear, and exclusion among immigrants. This system, initiated in 2018, has raised concerns about its impact on the mental well-being of those affected.
Red squirrels expand across Highlands after 10-year reintroduction drive
PositiveWorld Affairs
Red squirrels have expanded their range across the Highlands by over 25% following a decade-long reintroduction program that relocated hundreds of the species to new habitats. This initiative comes after red squirrels faced near extinction in the UK due to habitat destruction and culling by foresters, compounded by a virus from invasive grey squirrels.
German president compares UK ties post-Brexit to Oasis
NeutralWorld Affairs
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier likened the post-Brexit relationship between the UK and Germany to the band Oasis, emphasizing a mutual decision to move forward without resentment. This comment reflects a desire for constructive engagement following the UK's departure from the EU.