Innovating a business model usually is about finding ways to put elements of a service delivery together differently, these days it is usually also about combining technologies to deliver an outcome that would have been impossible without both the technology and the new combination.
In the US there is a new car sharing (as distinct from rental) service, Zipcar, growing very rapidly by delivering a car-share service without the frustrating paperwork, queues, and uncertainty that is present currently in car rentals.
Simply join, and receive a “Zipcard” which activates a reader on the windshield of a Zipcar, updates your account, records mileage and location of the car, and opens the doors so you can get in and drive away. You can just turn up at a depot, or reserve over the net or mobile app, no paperwork, no hassle.
Suddenly, inner city living just got a whole lot easier!
