Cars are becoming increasingly expensive, with the cost of vehicle ownership reaching an all-time high. This rise in expenses affects not only personal finances but also health and the environment, influencing everything from traffic congestion to air quality.
Recognizing the impact of widespread car ownership, a new initiative called the One Less Car trial has been introduced. This 5-week challenge invites up to 175 participants across the U.S. and Canada to give up their personal cars and utilize alternative forms of transportation, such as walking, public transit, cycling, and rideshare.
The One Less Car Challenge operates as follows:
- Join the Challenge: Car owners in Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D.C., Miami, San Francisco, Toronto, and Vancouver are encouraged to participate in the trial from July 22 to August 25. Interested individuals can apply to be part of the initiative.
- Financial Incentive from Uber: Selected participants will receive $1,000, reflecting the average monthly cost of vehicle ownership in the U.S. This amount can be used for alternative transportation options, including public transit, Lime e-bikes and e-scooters available through the Uber app, car rentals, and rideshare services.
- Share the Findings: In collaboration with the Behavioural Insights Team, a consultancy specializing in behavioral science, the trial will measure the impacts of a car-light lifestyle. Participants will document their experiences, detailing the transportation alternatives they use and the effects on their daily lives.
- Insights from Australia: In 2023, a similar trial was conducted with 58 Australians who gave up their cars for 4 weeks. The results showed that participants could replace the majority of their car trips with alternative transport methods.
With nearly 233 million private vehicles on U.S. roads—80 million of which are driven less than 10 miles a day—this challenge aims to demonstrate the feasibility of adopting a car-light lifestyle. The goal is to save money, reduce emissions, and contribute to more livable cities.
To experience a car-light lifestyle, apply to join the One Less Car trial.
