Streetcar

The company's business model was centered on providing a flexible and cost-effective alternative to private car ownership in urban areas. Members could book vehicles, including VW Golfs, Polos, and later BMWs, online or by phone for as little as 30 minutes. Access to the cars was granted via a smartcard, with vehicles parked in dedicated, on-street bays across a dense network. The pricing structure included an hourly rate plus a mileage charge after a free daily allowance, covering costs like fuel, insurance, and the London congestion charge. In 2008, Streetcar expanded its services by launching "Streetcar for Business," which catered to over 2,000 corporate clients with an annual membership and employee access model.

By 2010, Streetcar had grown to become the largest car club in the UK, operating in ten cities with a fleet of approximately 1,500 cars and nearly 100,000 members. The company's rapid growth and dominant market position attracted the attention of its US-based competitor, Zipcar. In April 2010, Zipcar announced its acquisition of Streetcar for an undisclosed sum, a deal that was finalized after regulatory approval. The acquisition led to the full integration of Streetcar's fleet and members into Zipcar's global network by November 2011, with the Streetcar brand being phased out.