The Italian Way to Carsharing

Laurino, Antonio; Grimaldi, Raffaele · 2012 · DOAJ

DOI: 10.6092/1970-9870/942

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Summary

This review paper examines the development, characteristics, and limitations of carsharing (CS) in Italy, positioning it within the broader context of sustainable urban mobility. The authors address the problem of urban sprawl and the excessive reliance on private cars, analyzing how CS serves as an alternative transport mode. The study is motivated by the need to understand the specific "Italian Way" of implementing CS, which differs from other European models due to the presence of a unique national coordination structure. The methodology involves a comprehensive literature review of global CS trends, followed by an analysis of the Italian national framework and specific case data. The authors detail the role of *Iniziativa Carsharing* (ICS), a national coordination structure established by the Ministry of the Environment in 2000. ICS provides technical, legal, and financial support to local operators, ensuring standardization and interoperability across municipalities. The paper analyzes data from twelve cities participating in the ICS circuit, comparing Italian membership figures with other European nations and examining user demographics, usage patterns, and service impacts. The findings indicate that while CS offers benefits such as reduced vehicle ownership, lower transport costs, and decreased pollutant emissions, its growth in Italy remains limited compared to countries like Germany or Switzerland. As of early 2012, the ICS network comprised approximately 18,921 members and 618 vehicles. Italian users mirror global profiles: they are predominantly male, well-educated, live in small households, and use CS primarily for leisure or shopping rather than commuting, relying on public transport for daily needs. The study highlights that Milan represents the most successful initiative, partly due to external mobility policies like toll schemes (Ecopass and Area C). Conversely, growth in smaller or newer cities has been slower. The authors identify two main constraints on CS expansion in Italy: a lack of integration with broader transport policies and cultural barriers, where many citizens still view car ownership as a status good rather than a service. The significance of this research lies in its conclusion that the future success of carsharing in Italy depends heavily on municipal and national mobility policies. The authors argue that promoting CS requires not only financial incentives but also a cultural shift in transport behavior. They suggest that external policies, such as congestion charging and restricted traffic zones, play a crucial role in making CS a viable alternative to private car ownership. The paper underscores the importance of standardized national frameworks like ICS in fostering interoperability and growth, while emphasizing that sustainable mobility requires a holistic approach integrating CS with public transport and urban planning strategies.

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