The city of Austin and Daimler - makers of the Smart Car - have a plan that will add to Austin's green reputation and possibly save the city thousands of dollars in the process.
Mayor Will Wynn was looking smart as he got out of the demo car, ready to talk about the city's Smart Car, car-share pilot program with automaker Daimler.
"Austin has such potential that Daimler has chosen Austin as the only city in the Western Hemisphere to launch this program," Austin Mayor Will Wynn said.
The way it works - Daimler will provide 200 Smart Cars. The city will lease car share parking spaces all over downtown. But instead of collecting money, the city will collect driving time. Daimler will allow city employees to use the Smart Cars for work-related driving.
"Our intent is to compare whether it is more economical to rent or use these vehicles, rather than purchase or replace vehicles as part of our future fleet decisions," said Austin City Manager Mark Ott.
Ott says Austin spends 6 to 7 million dollars on fuel and maintenance for its more than 1,800 light duty vehicles. He says if the Smart Cars can save the city anywhere from five to 10 percent, the lease agreement would be financially and environmentally worthwhile.
"I think this is very progressive and speaks highly of Austin's commitment to being a green city," said Austin resident Kristina Stefka.
"I think it is good for the city leaders to be out front on environmental issues, and this is a good way for them to be leaders on the issue," said Austin resident Robert Monger.
If all goes well with the pilot program, Daimler will bring in hundreds more Smart Cars that will be available to the general public. But before any of that can take place, the Smart Car, car share proposal must get the green light from city council. It'll be presented at next week's meeting.
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