Fleet
Car sharing only works with respect for others
16.08.2021
There are almost 200 people who do everything they can to ensure Mobility cars remain clean and safe. Their boss Markus Hyler has been on board for seven years. We asked him: what is the situation regarding damage and cleanliness? And are Mobility users really as bad drivers as some people claim?
3’000 cars – all over Switzerland. How do you manage to keep such a large fleet in good shape?
This is only possible thanks to the enormous commitment and dedication of our staff. We are very consistent and carry out regular checks, especially in terms of vehicle safety. We do our very best when it comes to cleaning, too. After all, the cars are Mobility’s calling card.
How many employees take care of the cleaning?
About 200. Of these, 43 are permanent mobile service workers who take care of the majority of our cars. We are also supported by more than 140 car attendants: Most of them are registered as cooperative members and carry out cleaning on an hourly basis. We all work hand in hand, and I’m proud of that.
Has your work changed over the years?
Yes, because the vehicles have evolved considerably. Whereas in the past we had to change a light bulb every now and then, modern electronics is much more challenging for us. In addition, different types of power such as petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric involve different challenges. Fortunately, that will change when we have switched completely to electric mobility.
«“Mobility customers drive just as well or as badly as other drivers.”»
How do you determine which car gets cleaned and when?
There are fixed cycles. We adapt this as required – whether to individual vehicles or entire categories. Specifically, this means that if a car is used a lot, we clean it more often. Employees are very familiar with their assigned stations and are able to react accordingly.
The number of car sharers is continuously on the increase. Mobility currently has 245’000 users. Does this have a negative impact on cleanliness?
The numbers have barely changed as a result of the increase in trips. Unfortunately, our customer service does receive more calls about littering, however. This means that litter is left in cars from time to time. I find that a pity and I don’t really understand why people do it. After all, Mobility is a community – it’s about pulling together. Car sharing can only work if you have respect for the next person. So I would ask users to treat Mobility cars as carefully and mindfully as if they were their own.
«“Mobility customers drive just as well or as badly as other drivers.”»
What should I do if I get into a car that isn’t clean?
Slight soiling in the footwell and exterior is normal – especially when it is wet outside. We take care of this as part of the regular cleaning cycle. In the event of more serious soiling, we would be grateful if you could contact us – preferably by phone or Contact form. We then come out to clean up the car and we charge the costs to the person responsible.
One question I’m particularly keen to ask: are Mobility customers really as bad at driving as is always claimed?
No. Mobility users drive just as well or as badly as other drivers. Of course, our cars stand out in road traffic because they’re red. But try asking yourself: how often have you been annoyed by non-Mobility drivers when on the road? And there you have the answer.
The most important two tips before setting off
1. Take a walk around the car.
If you see any damage, check in the Mobility app to see whether it has already been reported. If not, call our Service Center on 0848 824,812.
2. In the case of excessive soiling in the car:
please report this by phone or via chat on the Mobility website.
3. Adjust the mirror, seating position, radio and navigation system.
Quickly check whether you can handle the car’s functions.
What types of damage are most common?
Scratches and dents that occur when people manoeuvre in and out of parking spaces. It is unfortunate that not all damage is reported to us. Firstly, as a Mobility customer you are well covered. And secondly, we have to follow up and find out who is responsible.
What can people to do drive as safely as possible?
Adjust the mirrors, seat position, radio and navigation system before the journey and familiarise yourself with the car’s controls and functions. Taking a little time for all this is the be-all and end-all. In addition, more and more car models are offering parking assistance systems that indicate acoustically or visually how close you are to an obstacle.
And what if you do have a bump?
Don’t worry: contact our 24-hour Service Center by phone. They will take care of the rest. If third parties are involved, be sure to fill out an accident report and send it in to us. But enough about damage. I wish everyone a clean and safe trip.
Markus Hyler (37) has been working for Mobility for seven years. He is responsible for the mobile fleet, which is responsible, among other things, for cleaning the cars.