Daimler Debuts Peer-to-Peer Carsharing App

Mercedes-Benz owner Daimler has launched Croove, a peer-to-peer carsharing platform, as a pilot program in Munich, Germany. Croove is an app-based service that pairs up private vehicle owners and renters.

According to Daimler, the app offers renters a faster way of finding a well-maintained vehicles while also offering them greater flexibility in rental locations. Owners who rent their vehicle are able to optimize their car's rate of usage while earning some extra money at the same time.

To use Croove, owners create an online profile with the details of their vehicle, including any optional equipment, and enter their asking price. Croove can be used for any brand of car, provided that the vehicle is in good condition and no more than 15 years old, according to the company.

Once registered, renters can contact potential vehicle owners via the app and arrange appointments.

When using the service, the owner and renter inspect the vehicle together when it is collected and again once returned in order to check and document its condition. The app is also used for cashless payment and in-app ratings.

At launch, it will be possible to either collect the vehicle in person or pay extra for a pickup and delivery service, according to the company. Daimler is also considering introducing a keyless solution in the future, which would allow the renter to collect the vehicle using a PIN code.

Along with the app, Daimler is planning a desktop website for the service.