Hertz Signs Agreement to Acquire Melbourne’s Flexicar

Hertz has signed an agreement to acquire the Australian car sharing company, Flexicar.

Headquartered in Melbourne, Flexicar provides car sharing services to members throughout Melbourne and Sydney. The company will be integrated into Connect by Hertz car sharing following closing, which is scheduled for 1 December 2010.

“Connect by Hertz is an integral part of Hertz’s overall strategy to provide total mobility solutions to our customers,” said Hertz Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mark P. Frissora. “The Flexicar acquisition, Connect’s first foray into the Australian market, will further strengthen our global car sharing footprint, enabling us to reach a greater audience and to provide our worldwide members access to car sharing vehicles in a sixth country.”

Founded in 2005, Flexicar was launched with the belief that Australia’s inner city residents needed an affordable and sustainable alternative to car ownership. The company now operates 90 vehicles and has approximately 2500 members throughout Melbourne and Sydney.

“There are three common factors that drive consumers to join a car sharing club: cost savings, convenience and its environmental benefits,” said Robert Stuart, Senior Vice President, Global Sales for Hertz. “The Australian car sharing market closely mirrors the markets in which Connect serves, including residential, college campuses, and the business community. With a growing membership base and strong car utilization rate, Flexicar provides Connect with immediate access to these key markets.”

Flexicar will ultimately operate under the Connect by Hertz brand, with Flexicar founder Monique Conheady retaining her leadership position as Director of Australian Car Sharing Operations. The acquisition will benefit Flexicar members by offering sophisticated in-car technology, as well as greater access to cars and locations. Flexicar members will also be able to use Connect services in Berlin, London, Madrid, New York, and Paris.

Following closing and for the remainder of the year, the companies will begin transitioning Flexicar into Connect by Hertz.

Connect by Hertz

 Upon enrolling in Connect by Hertz, members receive a smart chip enabled Connect card, which gives them keyless entry to any car in the fleet that the member reserves. In the car, a hands-free audio kit connects members to a Member Care Center representative should they have questions, need assistance or need to extend their rental. The in-car technology also enables Connect by Hertz to “communicate” with the vehicle, enabling representatives to unlock, engage and locate vehicles. The technologically savvy cars are also equipped with iPod connectivity, NeverLost in-car navigation systems and EZ Pass transponders.

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