Car Subscriptions: The Future Of Vehicle Ownership?

Introduction To Car Subscriptions

Car subscriptions have been gaining popularity in recent years as a new way to own a car. Unlike traditional vehicle leasing, car subscriptions offer an all-inclusive, flexible, and cost-effective alternative without the commitment required to lease.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why car subscriptions are becoming more popular and how they differ from traditional vehicle leasing.

What Is A Car Subscription?

A car subscription is a service that allows you to drive a car for a monthly cost. Unlike traditional leasing, a car subscription includes all costs associated with ownership such as insurance, maintenance, and taxes which you would have to do individually during car ownership.

This makes it an all-inclusive service that offers a hassle-free and convenient way to own a car, temporarily. One of the biggest benefits of car subscriptions is having all the benefits of car leasing rolled into one monthly payment which you can cancel at any time or switch to other vehicle subscriptions on a monthly basis.

With a car subscription, you can also choose the make and model of the car you want to drive, and switch between other providers whenever you like. If you had a small petrol hatchback for a period of time and you then suddenly fancied trialling electric car ownership, you can.

This is especially appealing for people who like to change their car often or have changing needs. In contrast, traditional leasing requires you to stick with the same vehicle for the entire lease period.

With a monthly car subscription, you only pay for what you use, and you can avoid the upfront costs associated with traditional vehicle leasing. It’s similar to a regular car rental service which is more cost-effective over long periods of time.

Additionally, many car subscription services include roadside assistance (including breakdown cover), fully comprehensive insurance and maintenance, which can save you even more money if you consider the fact you’d normally have to take out gap insurance to lease on PCP (personal contract purchase) and HP (hire purchase).

FAQs About Car Subscriptions

Here is a list of frequently asked questions by customers looking for vehicle subscription services to help you with your research.

How Does A Car Subscription Work?

A car subscription is a service that allows you to drive a car for a monthly fee, typically including all costs associated with ownership such as insurance, maintenance, and taxes.

What Are The Benefits Of A Car Subscription?

Car subscriptions offer flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. They allow you to switch between cars, avoid upfront costs and include road tax, insurance and maintenance.

What Is Included In An All-inclusive Car Subscription?

An all-inclusive car subscription typically includes the cost of the car, insurance, maintenance, and taxes. Everything you need to legally drive, essentially.

Can I Choose Any Car With a Car Subscription?

Depending on the car subscription service, you have a good selection of cars to choose from which typically vary from large SUVs to small EVs and even van subscriptions.

Can You Get Electric car subscriptions?

Electric cars are available in most all-inclusive packages. With the increasing demand for cleaner air and reducing our carbon footprint, a lot of these providers are pushing for customers to switch to an all-electric car subscription.

You can subscribe to use a small hatchback for a 1-monthly payment, then switch to something more prestige such as a Tesla Model 3 if you wanted.

How Does A Car Subscription Compare To Traditional Leasing?

Car subscriptions differ from traditional leasing in that they offer greater flexibility and convenience, and include all costs associated with ownership.

Traditional lease begins with choosing whether you want to use the car and return it, or intend to purchase the car at the end of the contract length. These are known as hire purchase or personal contract purchase.

Car subscription providers only offer to use the vehicle temporarily without the option to purchase the vehicle. Generally, leasing contracts are a minimum of 2 years, whereas subscriptions are as little as 1-month in some cases. Most will push you towards a minimum of 90 days, though.

What Is The Cost Of A Car Subscription?

The cost of a car subscription varies depending on the service and the type of car you choose. To give you an idea, Wagonex has some small hatchbacks such as Suzuki Swifts and Renault Clios from £480 pcm.

They generally seem to be quite expensive but you don’t have to pay a large lump sum upfront and you’ll never need to maintain it in terms of servicing or buying tyres etc.

Are There Any Hidden Costs Associated With Car Subscriptions?

Hidden costs may vary depending on the service and contract, so it is important to read the terms and conditions carefully.

However, the business model is to avoid any hidden charges and fees, with transparency being the appeal to customers. Like anything, do your research, and read the terms fully before committing and you’ll be fine.

Is Insurance Included In A Car Subscription?

Many car subscription services include insurance as part of the monthly fee. Some don’t include insurance in the starting price but will offer it after doing some background checks.

What Is The Cancellation Policy For A Car Subscription?

The cancellation policy for a car subscription varies depending on the service, but typically requires a certain amount of notice before cancelling. 7-14 days is generally what most top car subscription providers offer.

How Often Can I Switch Between Cars With A Car Subscription?

Depending on the service, you may be able to switch between cars on a regular basis. Some in as little as 1 month and some require 60-90 days minimum.

Can I customise My Car Subscription Plan?

You are usually able to customise your car subscription plan as much as you’d like. If you are looking for an entry-level plan to start with then simply choose a cheaper car subscription service and get plenty of prices, first before ticking the options boxes.

On the other hand, find an all-inclusive package without any hidden fees you like and choose all the luxuries and perks you’d like. You can always change your mind later, remember?

What Are The Most Popular Car Subscription Services In The UK?

The most popular car subscription services in the UK include ONTO, Cocoon Vehicles, Sixt, Drover (now bought by Cazoo), Zipcar, and Wagonex.

Are There Any Age Or Credit Requirements For Car Subscriptions?

Age and credit requirements vary depending on the service provider and the type of car you choose. However, the short answer is yes, you usually have to be 21 or over and have a good credit rating.

How Long Does It Take To Sign Up For A Car Subscription?

Signing up for a car subscription can typically be done online or through a mobile app, and may take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. Delivery of your vehicle is much quicker than leasing so you could have your new vehicle within a few days.

If you use someone like Zipcar who has vehicles already parked up at convenient locations around the UK, you could be driving away your new rental within a few hours.

Can I Add Additional Drivers To My Car Subscription Plan?

Again, depending on the service, you may be able to add additional drivers to your car subscription plan for an additional fee, yes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, car subscriptions are revolutionising the way we own and drive cars. With their flexibility, convenience, and all-inclusive benefits, car subscriptions are quickly becoming the preferred choice for those seeking a cost-effective and hassle-free alternative to traditional leasing or owning a car outright.

By offering the freedom to switch between cars and the ease of having all ownership costs included in one monthly fee, car subscriptions allow us to focus on what really matters – the joy of driving. With a car subscription, you can enjoy the latest models and technology without the burden of long-term commitments or unexpected expenses.

So, if you’re tired of being tied down to a single car or dealing with the hassle of traditional leasing or car ownership, it’s time to explore the exciting world of car subscriptions. By embracing this new way of owning a car, you can join a growing movement of drivers who are taking control of their automotive experience and enjoying the ride. Let’s embrace the future of car ownership with open arms and get behind the wheel of a car subscription today.