Peer-to-peer car sharing platform Hiyacar has today announced it is launching in Bristol, its third city launch since London and Brighton.

The launch is in partnership with Toyota and will see 25 hybrid Yaris’ rolled-out across the city. Additionally, the car-owners in Bristol will be able to list their cars on the hiyacar platform allowing for peer to peer car sharing.

Bristol was chosen because it is home to one of the biggest Environmental Sustainability Board’s, established by the City Office, and its resident’s interest in green alternatives, the firm said.

Its keyless technology, Quickstart, means there is human contact involved in picking up and dropping off a car, as everything is done via virtual keys in an app.

Graeme Risby, CEO and Co-Founder of hiyacar, said: ‘‘While we still have a need for cars, many are not utilised the majority of the time – by launching in Bristol, our goal is to connect drivers to a car, when and where they want them in a sustainable way.

“For every car shared, 11 can be taken off the road and with Bristol’s drive for sustainability through community change, we’re hugely excited to see how we can work with the city, particularly with our key partner Toyota. Everybody wins when sharing!”

Paula Cooper, Director ConsumerOne at Toyota (GB) PLC added: “We have enjoyed a successful partnership with Hiyacar, supporting their London operation for just over a year.

“The expansion of the service into Bristol will build awareness of the benefits of using Toyota’s self-charging hybrid technology in city centres, and help us as a business gain valuable insights into consumer responses and preferences around the concept of car sharing. This reflects how we are transitioning from our traditional role as a car maker to become a provider and enabler of all kinds of mobility.”