HOPPYGO - WHY RENT IF YOU CAN SHARE?
Take a look outside. Do you see all the cars standing around, blocking the city? Many are standing there for days and days on end, waiting to be used again. We think there is a better, more efficient way. A way that can save the environment and also bring in extra cash for car owners. That’s why we created a service that allows people to share cars in a fun, reliable, and easy way. We are growing into a community of likeminded, future oriented people.
Here’s how it works: car owners can rent out their ride to the HoppyGoCommunity whenever it’s unused. On the flipside, drivers without a car can rent one in a pleasant, secure, and easy wayit’s like an Airbnb for cars.
Today we talked to Edward Meegan, the Project Lead of HoppyGo.
EDWARD, HOPPYGO IS RUNNING AT FULLTHROTTLE FOR ALMOST A YEAR. WHAT’S NEW?
We recently launched a new and improved version of the smartphone app. Basically, we gathered customer feedback for a couple of months. Then we implemented the mostwanted features, such as upgraded and enhanced search results, better filters, and a faster ordering process. Now, drivers can reserve a car in mapview with just a few clicks. Also, they can search by type of car or car brand.
AND ARE YOU FACING ANY CHALLENGES THESE DAYS?
Well, we’re steering towards winter season. This seems to be a low time for car sharing. We know that many people are scared to drive someone else’s car in winter and, generally, the time for spontaneous trips seems to the warmer time of the year.
ANY IDEAS HOW TO KEEP GROWING DESPITE THAT?
Yes. For one, we need to make it clear that all cars are equipped with winter tires and even snow chains in some cases. In addition to this, we upgraded our insurance plan and roadside assistance for all car rentals and, starting next year It’s always important to be careful on the road, but we are always working to minimize the risks and help owners and drivers, however, we can.
AS THE PROJECT LEAD, WHAT’S KEY TO RUNNING A PROJECT LIKE THIS?
You have to pick people you like and want to work with. Let’s face it: you’re likely to see them more than your family, especially in the early phases of the startup. You don’t want to be stuck at work with bad team chemistry. This can make or break the project.
WE’RE APPROACHING CHRISTMAS… WHY SHOULD PEOPLE GET A HOPPYGO CAR OVER THE HOLIDAYS?
First of all, we implemented a new discount system. This allows drivers to visit all their relatives and actually pay less per day the longer they rent the car. Besides that, we have cars available that you simply can’t find anywhere else. So, depending on the weather, you can get a roomy SUV, a classy sedan, or a flashy sports car. Also, our new app makes ordering easy while adding a playful touch. Last, you never have to wait in line at the rental car office and deal with grumpy clerks who try to milk you for more money.