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Las Cruces residents can now rent electric vehicles by the hour through a new car-sharing program aimed at expanding affordable and sustainable transportation options in the city.
The initiative is a partnership between the City of Las Cruces, El Paso Electric and nonprofit transportation organization Forth Mobility. Two electric vehicles are available for public use at 307 S. Main St. and can be reserved through the MDO carshare mobile app.
“El Paso Electric is proud to bring an affordable, short-term electric car rental program to Las Cruces, New Mexico, together with our partners,” said Angie Rodriguez, manager of electrification at El Paso Electric. “This program further solidifies our commitment to providing our customers with equitable access to electric transportation and charging infrastructure.
Rodriguez said the program also allows residents to experience driving an electric vehicle firsthand before committing to purchasing one.
“We are especially excited about this program, as it gives people a first-hand experience with an EV to see how simple and convenient clean transportation can be,” Rodriguez said.
To participate, residents must download the app, create an account, and upload their driver’s license along with a credit, debit, or prepaid card. Applications typically take about five business days for approval. After completing a short orientation video and quiz in the app, approved drivers can reserve and unlock the vehicles directly from their phones.
There is a one-time $10 application fee, and approved drivers receive up to four free hours on their first drive.
According to the city’s Sustainability Office, the program has been in development for about three to four years as a part of broader goals outlined in Las Cruces’ Climate Action Plan.
“This pilot program brings an additional, low-cost, clean transportation option to underserved and overburdened communities,” said Jenny Hernandez, sustainability officer with the city manager's office.
The pilot program is expected to run through November with the city evaluating its success based on ridership and how often the vehicles are used.
Transportation is currently the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Las Cruces, and officials say the program could help reduce pollution while expanding mobility options across the community.
