FunRide, a San Luis Obispo car-sharing service that features alternative fuel vehicles to rent on an hourly basis, celebrates its first birthday in July by expanding to Ventura, Calif., adding a 15-passenger van for its next vehicle, and adjusting its rate structure. 

The local business recently announced in its newsletter that it has met with representatives from the city and county of Ventura, and will set up a meeting this month to present to businesses, hotels and investors a plan to operate FunRide in Ventura.

It is also working with other interested areas, including California cities Sacramento, Davis and Los Angeles, as well as Denver, Colo. and Omaha, Neb.

On top of expanding to a new city, FunRide has found a 15-passenger van that uses propane, and the company says it plans to make it available for its members this month to meet the needs of large groups, especially visitors.

But perhaps the most drastic change is that it’s offering its members up to 150 free miles with each reservation.

Unfortunately, the company raised its rates by $1 per hour. After the 150th mile, members must pay 30 or 40 cents a mile, depending on their plan.

“We believe these new rates will save our members money with a flat hourly rate unless you exceed the 150 miles during your reservation,” said FunRide CEO Mark T. Shaffer in a recent e-newsletter.

To see a detailed listing of the new rates, click here. http://www.myfunride.com/rates.html