Rethinking automobility in the suburb: Experiences with carsharing in a Danish suburb

Abstract

Suburban areas pose challenges for sustainable mobility due to their reliance on private cars. This paper investigates carsharing as a potential strategy to promote sustainability in suburban mobility. Through qualitative analysis of interviews with households in a newly developed suburban area in Denmark, where a subsidized carsharing service was introduced, this paper explores the possibilities and challenges of transitioning to carsharing. Findings are related to experiences from two other carsharing schemes in the area, based on interviews with the operators. The paper concludes that the success of carsharing in suburbs depends on tailoring schemes to the specific material and planning context and integrating them into the local community. Drawing on practice theory, the paper argues that this integration allows residents to change mobility practices. Further, mobility innovation must also question conventional planning truths, such as parking as a public good and mobility as a private matter.