HOURCAR available at the Seward Co-op

With HOURCAR’s newest location opening in the Seward Co-op, 2823 E. Franklin Ave., Seward residents now have a less-expensive transportation option — limiting the need for a full-time car and relieving a few bank accounts in these tough times.

The car-sharing service allows customers access to cars on a per-trip basis and to pay accordingly. HOUCAR locations offer 100 miles free at hourly rates of $6–$8; daily rates of $55–$65 on weekdays and $65–$75 on weekends, depending on the level of monthly dues of $5 or $15. Each mile after 100 miles costs 25¢. There is even an off-peak deal, $3 per hour, 11 p.m.–7 a.m.

Cars must be returned mess-free and with at least a quarter tank of gas. The vehicle comes with a fuel card — you pump, HOURCAR pays.

Besides personal use, HOURCAR can be used for businesses to end mileage reimbursements. This service may also prove helpful for those who commute by bus, bike or carpool but need a car for workday responsibilities.

HOURCAR uses energy efficient hybrid cars, such as the Toyota Prius and Yaris. The Seward Co-op will be the first HOURCAR location to introduce the Honda Insight hybrid to their services.

Drivers must be at least 18 years old, have at least one year of driving experience and a clean driving record to register.

After registering at www.hourcar.org, reservations can be made online or by phone at 651-221-4462.

The new Seward Co-op HOURCAR hub is the fifth in the Bridge area; the others are at Augsburg College in Cedar-Riverside, The Depot and the Mill Quarter ramp in Downtown East, and the Northeast Riverfront hub at E. Hennepin Ave. and NE Second St. in the East Bank neighborhood. There are 13 other locations in the Twin Cities area.