New carpooling app ComOn launches in Brussels

A new app described as a "Tinder for carpooling" has just launched in the Brussels region.

ComOn connects commuters travelling to nearby locations to create carpools and share rides. It already claims a network of 137,000 users.

"People are becoming aware of the value of sharing their journey to reduce congestion and pollution," said Sandrine Vokaer, project manager of Taxistop ASBL, which developed the app.

ComOn was developed with the hope to reduce CO2 emissions and travel costs. The website even includes a calculator to estimate how many carpooling trips it would take to save money for a dinner for two or a holiday.

"Promoting carpooling is a priority for us," said Brussels region mobility minister Pascal Smet. "Thanks to this application you can immediately see who you can carpool with. It's simple, efficient and I hope that its use will increase in the coming months."

Through the app, users can post where they want to go and discover various route options. The app is free to use and, since carpooling costs are shared, the trip can cost as little as the app’s recommended € 0.08 per kilometre.

In the coming weeks, the ComOn app will introduce real-time location-based tracking allowing users to find a carpooler at the last minute.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices through the Apple store and Google Play.

Taxistop also operates the website www.carpool.be for professionals seeking a shared ride to work. Students, or parents of students, looking to carpool to school can visit www.schoolpool.be