Kite, a car sharing company offering a unique twist, is rapidly expanding its operations across Canada and beyond. Currently active in 20 buildings nationwide, Kite plans to extend its reach to 70 additional buildings within the next 18 months. This ambitious expansion aims to broaden their presence into the United States and Europe, further solidifying their footprint in the car sharing industry. As part of their growth strategy, Kite intends to install new hubs at train stations and introduce autonomous vehicles, providing more convenience and innovation for users.
Kite offers building residents the chance to experience car sharing and electric vehicles without pressure or commitment. The company provides a comprehensive package that includes charging, maintenance, and insurance, all covered under one plan. This initiative has garnered significant interest, as evidenced by a 30% rise in registered users since 2022. Additionally, the number of annual trips taken by Kite users has increased by 11%, indicating a growing customer base each month.
"Residents can save money by kind of ditching their privately-owned car, and that cost saving means they now can afford to live in the building, or maybe they can even upgrade their apartment," said Mr MacWilliam.
Kite's focus on electric vehicles aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable transportation options. Their hubs, typically located on the first level of building's underground parking, allow users to book from a fleet of up to 40 fully charged electric cars. This setup creates value for people who prioritize sustainability and is becoming a habitual choice for many families downsizing from two cars to one.
"Our customer pool is increasing every month, so that means we are creating a certain value for people, who prefer electric cars for sustainability reasons. It's becoming a daily habit for many people, especially families," stated Mr Dagilis.
Despite its promising growth and commitment to sustainability, Kite faces challenges typical to car sharing services. Concerns about the availability of vehicles and maintenance issues persist among users. However, the convenience provided by such services remains a strong incentive for many urban dwellers looking for flexible mobility solutions.
"The ability to move around a big city quickly, and not worry about parking, helps me have a more flexible schedule and better control of my time," shared Ms Mackeviciute, a satisfied user.
To address these challenges, Kite aims to innovate with autonomous vehicles and strategically placed hubs that enhance accessibility and reliability. These efforts reflect their dedication to improving user experience and expanding their service locales.
"What I'm most excited about, is we could fundamentally change the way buildings are built, forever," expressed Mr MacWilliam.
As Kite continues its expansion, it remains focused on adapting to the evolving needs of city dwellers. The company recognizes the trend towards a "turnkey" lifestyle, where individuals prefer ready-to-use services that complement their busy routines.
"There's a growing trend of more people with a busy city life wanting a 'turnkey' lifestyle. Real estate developers see this as a sales and marketing advantage," added Mr MacWilliam.