Zipcar has expanded its car-sharing program to American University in Washington, D.C., according to a company announcement. The campus fleet includes a Ford Escape SUV and Honda Civic as well as six seven-passenger vans, including the Ford Transit Connect and Toyota Sienna.

The Ford Escape and Honda Civic can be rented by any American University Zipcar member age 18 and older. Zipcar says the vans are available for the exclusive use by approved faculty, staff and student organizations. The university will pay for the membership cost of the vans when the vehicles are used for school-related activities.

As part of the new launch, Zipcar is offering all students, faculty and staff at American University a $15 annual fee for the first year of membership. After the first year, members will pay $35. Gas, insurance and up to 180 miles of driving per day are included in the rates.

"Zipcar is delighted to partner with American University to create this program to meet the needs of students, faculty and staff," said Scott Hall, general manager of Zipcar Washington, D.C. "From our direct-billed account members driving minivans to and from school activities, to students using Zipcars for errands, job interviews, excursions into the city, or weekend trips away, Zipcar provides a convenient and cost-effective transportation option for virtually every need."