<p>My S mentioned that Caltech provides "zip cars" for student transportation. What is the bigger story? Can any student use them? For what period of time/distance? How much do they cost? Whatever other info :-).</p>
<p>Thank you.</p>
<p>Zip cars are from an independent company that probably pays Caltech some amount of money to get reserved parking spots (I know of one or two near the undergrad houses and two near the graduate apartments) with a sign to denote only they can park there.</p>
<p>They’re essentially a rent-a-car company where you buy access to their network, and then pay an hourly fee to use the car. No cost for gas or insurance. I’m pretty sure anyone with a license is allowed to drive them (since they’re not actually affiliated with Caltech, it’s all up to the company).</p>
<p>The company just went public by issuing shares</p>
<p>[Car</a> Sharing, an alternative to car rental and car ownership – Zipcar](<a href=“http://www.zipcar.com/]Car”>http://www.zipcar.com/)</p>
<p>You can find rates and details there</p>
<p><a href=“http://www.zipcar.com/caltech/[/url]”>http://www.zipcar.com/caltech/</a></p>
<p>Thanks for the info!</p>
<p>My son uses the Zipcars at Tech quite often and finds it very convenient. I like that insurance and gas is included in the price. Much cheaper than having a car on campus.</p>