Ride share, also known as carpooling or car-sharing, refers to a transportation arrangement where individuals or commuters share a vehicle to travel together to a specific destination. It involves multiple individuals who coordinate to share the same car for a common journey, typically to and from work or other regular trips.
In a ride share arrangement, passengers and drivers connect through various platforms and mobile applications specifically designed for this purpose. Through these platforms, individuals can search for available rides or offer seats in their own vehicles for others to join. Some ride share services may involve a predetermined route and schedule, while others are more flexible and provide on-demand options.
Ride share provides several advantages for all parties involved. Passengers benefit from the convenience and cost-saving aspects as they share the travel expenses, reducing the financial burden of commuting. It can also contribute to reduced traffic congestion and environmental impact by minimizing the number of vehicles on the road. For drivers, sharing a ride allows them to monetize their vehicle by offering available seats and recuperating some of the maintenance and fuel costs.
While ride share is commonly associated with commuting, it can also be used for other purposes, such as long-distance travel or rides to specific events or destinations. Its popularity has increased significantly in recent years, with several dedicated companies and applications emerging to facilitate and streamline the ride share experience.
The term "ride share" is composed of two words: "ride" and "share".
The word "ride" dates back to the 14th century and originates from the Old English word "ridan", which means "to sit on". Over time, "ride" came to refer to traveling in a vehicle or on an animal.
The word "share" comes from the Old English word "scearu", meaning "a part" or "portion". It has since evolved to mean the act of dividing or distributing something among multiple people.
The term "ride share" emerged in the 20th century, specifically in the context of carpooling or sharing a ride with others who are heading in the same direction. It refers to the practice of individuals sharing a vehicle to reach a common destination, splitting the costs and reducing the number of cars on the road.