(January 20, 2011) AUSTIN, Texas —  Car2go and Whole Foods Market announced today that four car2go dedicated parking spots are now available at the natural and organic food retailer’s flagship store at 525 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin.

Whole Foods Market shoppers and who are car2go members will now have the convenience of parking and sharing car2go vehicles.

“Whole Foods Market is committed to environmental sustainability and making a difference in our community,” said Rebecca Scofield, Austin community relations coordinator for Whole Foods Market. “We believe that this partnership with car2go will support our continued dedication to our core values.”

Since their North American launch in November 2009, car2go has registered more than 15,000 members and has been working with several organizations and businesses within the Austin community to lay the groundwork for innovative transportation solutions.

Car2go is a subsidiary of Daimler AG that provides car-sharing services. Service began in Ulm, Germany, in October 2008. It became available in Austin in May 2010 and will launch in Hamburg, Germany this spring.

Car2go's fleet contains over 400 Smart Fortwo microcars; a diesel version in Germany and a gasoline version in the U.S. Unlike traditional car-sharing programs, car2go is not station-based. An extensive fleet is located throughout the greater downtown area and can be accessed "on-demand" or booked 24 hours in advance.

The driver can finish the rental in any available public parking space within the business area or at one of the specially marked car2go spaces. Charges are based on minutes used and include fuel, insurance, parking and maintenance. There is no security deposit, monthly fee, or reservation cost.