Car sharing for newly qualified drivers?

The Editor
ST Online
9 September 2005

I refer to the letter from Tan Tiong Heng (ST Forum Online 8 Sep 2005).

NTUC Income operates the car sharing scheme to provide an afforable means for its members to share the use of the cars owned by the cooperative. We operate a fleet of 180 cars located at 70 convenient locations. The current fleet serves 5,200 members.

At present, we impose a condition that a member must have at least 30 months of driving experience. This is to reduce the incidence of accidents. If there are many accidents, the cars will not be available and will adversely affect the quality of service to other members.

New drivers can borrow a car from family members, friends or colleagues. They also often benefit from being accompanied by another experienced driver while practising.

We do not think it is suitable for the car cooperative to mix the needs of new drivers with the general needs of our members. Nevertheless, we do adopt a flexible approach and will be prepared to waive the 30 month bar if the applicant can demonstrate his car handling capability.

We have taken note of the views of Mr Tan. We will see if we can set aside a few additional cars to serve the needs of newly qualified drivers.

Lewis Chen
General Manager
NTUC Income Car Co-Op