Paper Number
ECIS2026-1022
Paper Type
SP
Abstract
This short paper explores the drivers of sustained engagement with car-sharing platforms within the broader evolution of technology-enabled sustainable mobility. While mobility solutions such as car-sharing have been widely recognized as critical enablers of smart and environmentally responsible transportation systems, empirical insights into the needs and affordances that shape continued usage remain limited. Drawing on the needs–affordance perspective, this ongoing research explores the users’ contextual needs and socio-technical affordances that lead to continued usage of car-sharing platforms. Using survey data from car-sharing platform users across France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, the analysis reveals that usage frequency is primarily driven by needs—such as lacking a private vehicle and experiencing inadequate public transport—and by functional affordances embedded in platform design. The findings contribute to Green IS research by demonstrating how platform design can support sustainable mobility solutions
Recommended Citation
GAUR, Aakanksha and Tandon, Ayushi, "Car-Sharing Platforms And Socio-Technical Affordances: A Needs-Affordance Perspective" (2026). ECIS 2026 Proceedings. 1.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2026/is_resil/isresilience/1
Car-Sharing Platforms And Socio-Technical Affordances: A Needs-Affordance Perspective
This short paper explores the drivers of sustained engagement with car-sharing platforms within the broader evolution of technology-enabled sustainable mobility. While mobility solutions such as car-sharing have been widely recognized as critical enablers of smart and environmentally responsible transportation systems, empirical insights into the needs and affordances that shape continued usage remain limited. Drawing on the needs–affordance perspective, this ongoing research explores the users’ contextual needs and socio-technical affordances that lead to continued usage of car-sharing platforms. Using survey data from car-sharing platform users across France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, the analysis reveals that usage frequency is primarily driven by needs—such as lacking a private vehicle and experiencing inadequate public transport—and by functional affordances embedded in platform design. The findings contribute to Green IS research by demonstrating how platform design can support sustainable mobility solutions