Employers of all shapes and sizes are now starting to run car sharing schemes, offering their employees free reserved parking spaces and other perks.
People of all backgrounds have been car sharing too - some of them have been kind enough to share their experiences with us:
David, Manchester Airport
At Manchester Airport David has been car sharing since October 2000.
"I car share pretty much five days a week, saving my car share partner and I about 300 miles driving per week, which approximates to £120 per week each - probably about £30 per week each purely in petrol. For me though, the main benefit is the reduced wear and tear on me driving in the rush-hour."
Angela and Lisa, Stepping Hill Hospital
Hospital Managers Angela and Lisa car share at least 3 times a week on their journey from Buxton to Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport.
Lisa says, "I find car sharing helps to make sure I leave work on time, and save money. Angela is retiring so I'll be looking for a new car share partner soon."
Emma and Yasmeen, RAC
Two car sharers from RAC Motoring Services in Stretford decided that they could share longer journeys than the one to work.
"We met for the first time through the car sharing scheme at work", says Emma. "Yasmeen and I have been sharing journeys together for the last year, and got on so well that we recently spent a fortnight in Dubai on holiday together!"
Let's hope they saved enough money car sharing to help pay for the flight!
Stephen, Expotel
Stephen has been car sharing on his journey to work in Stockport for eight months now.
"The main reason for car sharing was car parking - Expotel does not have a car park, but does provide spaces for car sharers. I found it harder and harder to get a space to park on the local streets, and the threat of my car being broken into meant that car sharing was a saviour!"
Lynsey and Gemma, Expotel
Lysney says, "I haven't been car sharing for that long, but I already see the benefits. As I recently moved close to one of my colleagues, it made sense to come in one car. Before we had a car sharers' parking space we found it increasingly difficult to park near to work. We used to leave for work around 8.00am in the morning for a 15 minute drive, however because of the difficulties parking we were occasionally late. Since getting a space we meet at 8.30 and arrive at work for 8.50am in plenty of time to make a brew."
