In February, Flex celebrates its one-year anniversary. Since its start, over 1,000 clients have joined, a “constantly increasing” figure, according to Berg. 

The company has 80 cars at 30 stations, with a concerted effort have a presence in, and collaborate with, certain communes--Hesperange and Bertrange, for example. 

Carsharing shouldn’t be a chore

Some users of the service are commuters who arrive at a public transport stop (e.g., train station or bus stop) and then take the car to another destination. “It’s also a good solution if you need a car spontaneously,” Berg says, “for example, if your car is in the garage.” 

It’s easy, but there are a few limitations. Currently, the system is loop-based, meaning users have to pick up and drop off the car in the same location. Flex also requires users to get a Flex card, although this is a straightforward process that can be initiated online. Users later need to physically go to collect the card, normally at the CFL guichet, and then there’s instant access to the app, which allows for bookings, calculates fees, and so on.  

There are a range of electric and traditional combustion engine cars at each station, Berg says. And there are different models drivers can try.

“Carsharing should not be seen as a must. People should be having fun sharing cars and using public transport. At least it should be a positive thing. If not, something is wrong,” Berg says.

Considering the longer term

In fact, Berg thinks there are plenty of opportunities for politics and business to work hand in hand to make carsharing more interesting for everyone. 

To take one example, Berg likes the idea of a “combo of carsharing and free parking. In cities you have to pay for parking on the street per hour, not necessarily for making money, but because there is limited space. With carsharing you pay per hour.”

The logic is that since drivers are already paying per hour, it’s in their best interest to return their car as soon as possible, negating the need to charge for parking simply to encourage drivers to free up those parking spaces.

It’s one of many ideas Berg has, but he simultaneously admits, “we’re all still learning.”