Key Takeaways from April’s CSO Member Chat
The most recent Carsharing Association (CSA) Operator Chat brought together frontline professionals from across North America for an honest, collaborative conversation about the challenges and opportunities currently shaping the carsharing landscape.
From rising tariffs to rusted-out brakes, nothing was off the table.
A Shifting Political Landscape and the Impact of Tariffs
One of the dominant themes was the uncertainty surrounding international tariffs and broader political instability. Operators voiced growing concerns over the affordability of electric vehicles (EVs) and supporting infrastructure.
“We planned for nine EVs. Now we’re looking at five—just to make sure we can afford them,” one operator shared. Others noted that previously awarded grants were abruptly revoked, leaving essential research projects and service expansions in limbo.
“A $250,000 grant was pulled overnight. There’s no clear path forward,” another explained.
Despite this volatility, there was a sense of long-term optimism. As one participant put it, “I always try to see the opportunity in crisis. But this one’s hitting every corner of our work.”
Charging Infrastructure Remains a Major Pain Point
Delayed installations, rising hardware costs, and unreliable partnerships with infrastructure providers were a recurring frustration.
“We’ve got the cars—but no homes for them yet,” one operator stated, referring to electric vehicles that remain idle due to lack of charging stations.
Others described the daily logistical grind of keeping their fleets operational: “Every day feels like we’re playing musical chargers,” one participant said. “We’re paying insurance on vehicles that can’t be used.”
Operators reported rotating cars manually between charging locations, depending heavily on partnerships with municipalities and private companies—many of which are delayed or under-resourced.
Knowledge Sharing and Field-Tested Advice
One standout strength of the session was the willingness to share practical lessons learned, from fleet operations to vehicle maintenance in challenging environments.
Several operators discussed EVs sitting idle for weeks—becoming targets for rodents. “Two of our EVs were almost written off because mice chewed through the wiring,” one noted. Another recalled, “A squirrel ate the entire wiring harness in a Tacoma. Ten grand in damage.”
Participants also discussed tools that help streamline operations and improve vehicle condition monitoring—like in-vehicle sensors that detect smoking or harsh driving behaviour. “We’re piloting a device that catches vaping. It’s been surprisingly effective and pays for itself,” someone shared.
Serving Communities Despite the Headwinds
Even amid all the challenges, operators remained focused on their mission to serve communities—especially those underserved by traditional transportation systems.
“People love the service. They just want more availability—but we’re at capacity,” one operator noted, citing demand that currently outpaces supply.
Equity was a recurring theme, especially as some providers focus on offering affordable access in rural areas or neighbourhoods with limited mobility options. “We’re serving people who don’t have access to traditional transportation. That’s why we’re here.”
🚗 Interested in joining the next conversation?
Sign up for the CSA newsletter to receive invites, resources, and insights straight from the field.
Facing similar challenges?
Join the CSA and connect with other operators navigating the future of shared mobility.