Wasco residents introduced to electric car rental system

The Kern Council of Governments was instrumental in bringing two electric cars to showcase at the Villa Hermosa Apartment Complex on Poplar Avenue in late July.

Aiding in this new option for one-car families who need access to a second car, CalVan and Self Help partnered together with Kern COG. Chevy and BMW are just two of the automakers that have made electric cars available to rent for an hour, a day or a week.

The idea behind this concept of ridesharing is to reduce pollution and cut down on vehicle costs in order to allow residents to rent a car to run errands, grocery shop, or make special appointments.

Once you become a member, you will have access to a network of electric cars available in designated locations 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

All residents have to do is download the Miocar Application on their smartphone and make a reservation to pick up the vehicle at either Sunrise Villa, 1500 Poplar, or Rosaleda Village, 650 N. Maple.

Chevy Volt and BMWi3 are just two of the cars available for rent.

Some important facts to understand when renting one of these vehicles:

--There is a one-time membership fee of $20.

--The car costs $4/hour.

--It costs $35/day on a weekday.

--It costs $45/day on a weekend.

--There is a $.35 fee for every mile driven over 150 miles in one day.

Additionally, there are a few requirements. You must be 21 or older and have a valid driver's license, a good driving record, and a credit/debit prepaid card.

Once you become a member, insurance and car maintenance are included.

Charging stations are located throughout the county, and there will be two charging stations coming to Wasco in the next year.

The Chevy Bolt will travel a total of 240 miles before needing to be recharged, and the BMW will go 180 miles.

For those without a smartphone, you can obtain the application online at Miocar.com or call 559-205-9730.