That question sparked the creation of the Twin Cities Electric Vehicle Mobility Network, now known as the EV Spot Network and Evie Carshare.
It began as a bold idea: to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand transportation access by introducing an all-electric, one-way car-sharing service in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. And it was important to everyone involved that the project be rooted deeply in the needs of the community first.
In 2019, as part of the American Cities Climate Challenge, Sylver Consulting was honored to support this initiative by facilitating a human-centered research and prototyping process.
Through focus groups, interviews, and collaborative workshops, we engaged residents from neighborhoods across the planned service area, asking:
Clear Insights
The people spoke, and we listened.
They wanted flexibility, affordability, and independence. They sought a service that could replace or supplement car ownership without the burdens of maintenance and cost. They needed a system that respected their time and supported their lifestyles.
These community voices didn't just inform the design—they shaped it. Through every step of the process, residential input was integral to building a service that felt like their own, and it paid off.
The initial results surpassed our goals and the community loved it, with one resident saying:
This service makes me think twice about buying a car. I feel like it would give me the freedom to drive when I need to without spending all that money.”
It didn’t stop there, though…
Proven Results
The impact of this co-created approach grows every year. According to the 2024 Impact Report, Evie Carshare has achieved even more remarkable results:
A 27% rise in trips, covering over 2.5 million miles.
A 32% increase in membership, surpassing 10,000 members.
A reduction of 7,992 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
These figures represent more than statistics—they reflect lives changed, opportunities unlocked, and a community empowered.
Looking Ahead
Building on this success, the program is expanding into East Saint Paul, guided by continued community engagement. New EV Spot charging sites and car-sharing hubs are being established, ensuring that the benefits of electric mobility reach even more residents!
At Sylver Consulting, we’re so proud to have played a role in this transformative journey. And we want to say congratulations to the residents, city leaders, and partners who really leaned into the power of co-creation.
This is what happens when we listen, engage, and build together.
This is the power of co-creation.
Santana Wright has 5 years of experience in copywriting and social media marketing across multiple industries, from a small-town cafe to a global education group. Her passion for psychology, marketing, and writing and her curious nature push her to constantly explore new arenas and broaden her skills. She joined the Sylver Consulting social media team in 2024 as a Social Media and Marketing Associate Consultant, and she is excited to see how the innovation company can challenge her to grow even further.
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