Mobilityways has issued a call for an urgent carpooling strategy in the UK, citing evidence that traffic increases by 30% without lift-sharing.

On Friday 5 September, 2025, Ali Clabburn, Founder of Liftshare and Chair of Mobilityways, addressed the House of Commons Transport Select Committee. During his testimony, Clabburn emphasized the urgent need for a “low-cost, high-impact solution” to address issues of congestion, emissions, and access to work in the UK. He stated that carpooling is the answer, and without it, there would be 30% more cars on the roads.

Clabburn also pointed out that while other European countries such as France, Italy, and the Netherlands have implemented national carpooling plans and allocated significant funds towards promoting carpooling, the UK has not provided any support for the sector. He highlighted France’s annual investment of €150 million to triple carpooling by 2027 as a prime example of the government’s commitment to this solution.

In his statement, Clabburn stated, “Carpooling is a win-win: it saves people money, cuts emissions, improves access to jobs, reduces loneliness and congestion – and it can be done tomorrow, because the empty seats are already there.” He also shared that Liftshare members save an average of £1,000 a year and reduce their carbon footprint by around a tonne by participating in carpooling. Despite these benefits, carpooling has not been included in any government plans or initiatives, unlike buses or electric vehicles.

Other experts who provided evidence to the committee echoed Mobilityways’ call for action on carpooling. Richard Dilks, from CoMoUK, expressed concern that the UK is “at an all-time low” in terms of government support for shared mobility. He compared the UK unfavorably to countries like Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland, where carpooling is a significant part of their transport policies.

Sam Dewhurst from HiyaCar shared success stories of corporate car-sharing schemes in the NHS and local government, which have led to cost savings and reduced emissions. One trust was able to save £60,000 and 20 tonnes of CO₂ in just one year.

The committee members also recognized the potential of carpooling in addressing rural access and workforce recruitment issues, where inadequate public transportation is hindering growth.

In light of this evidence, Mobilityways is urging the Department for Transport to adopt a national carpooling strategy, which includes incentives for first-time carpool trips, recognition of carpooling as a formal transport mode, and support for employers to incorporate carpooling into their recruitment, retention, and net zero plans.

Clabburn concluded, “The government has expressed its commitment to reducing congestion and emissions, improving access to work, and boosting productivity. Carpooling offers a solution to all of these challenges, and it can be implemented immediately and at a minimal cost. Other countries have already demonstrated its effectiveness; it is time for the UK to catch up.”