Nissan Goes Small with Car-Sharing Program in Japan

Nissan Motor Co. is launching a car-sharing program with its tiny New Mobility neighborhood electric vehicle in Yokohama, Japan.

Users can make reservations 30 minutes in advance and pick up their vehicles and return them to 14 locations near the Yokohama train station. The so-called “Choimobi Yokohama” service costs 250 yen ($2.21) per 15 minutes plus a 200 yen ($1.77) base fee, with a maximum daily charge of 3,000 yen ($26.50). Free parking is available at 12 locations in the city.

The new program also will include long-term business rentals and guided tours around Yokohama, according to the carmaker. Nissan previously conducted a two-year pilot program for car-sharing in Yokohama.

Nissan introduced the ultra-compact New Mobility Concept vehicle in 2010. At the time, the carmaker said the tiny two-seater, which has a glass roof and no doors, was intended for short-distance car-sharing programs.

Powered by a 17-hp electric motor and 6.1-kWh lithium-ion battery, the EV has a driving range of about 40 miles and a top speed of 25 mph. The car is based on the European model Renault Twizy.