Maven currently allows drivers to rent a short-term vehicle from GM, whether for personal tourism or for driving jobs like Uber, Lyft, and various food delivery programs. The vehicles used in Maven are all owned by GM. This pilot program would allow people to rent out their own vehicles for this purpose, sharing the profits with the motor company.
Alexandre Marian, a director in the automotive and industrial practice at consultant AlixPartners LLP, has faith in this model. He believes it fits with a changing industry, without the heavy investments from the company.
“Carmakers are preparing for disruption, so they are experimenting with different models.”
Tesla Inc. founder Elon Musk has also expressed interest in the idea, letting Tesla owners rent out their self-driving cars when not in use.
“You will also be able to add your car to the Tesla shared fleet just by tapping a button on the Tesla phone app and have it generate income for you while you’re at work or on vacation, significantly offsetting and at times potentially exceeding the monthly loan or lease cost. This dramatically lowers the true cost of ownership to the point where almost anyone could own a Tesla.”
Would you trust your vehicle with strangers if it meant more money in your pocket? Especially if it's a nicer vehicle, like a Tesla? I likely would not.
