#Japan #Osaka #Osaka Metro #Times Mobility #Bentencho

New Era of Urban Mobility in Osaka

Osaka Metro, based in Osaka's Nishi Ward and led by President Hideaki Kawai, is collaborating with Times Mobility, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, to enhance transportation options for the public. On May 1, 2025, the highly anticipated "Mobility Hub Bentencho" will officially introduce Times Mobility's car-sharing service, "Times Car."

The Mobility Hub concept aims to create seamless transitions between different modes of transportation, contributing to the sustainable growth of Osaka Metro's operations. The Bentencho Mobility Hub will serve as an essential junction featuring access to the subway and on-demand bus services, enhancing travel efficiency. With the inclusion of Times Car, this hub is set to offer even greater convenience and comfort for commuters.

About the Mobility Hub Bentencho

Located at the Bentencho Bus Terminal, the Bentencho Mobility Hub will officially open in April 2025, complementing existing infrastructure such as train stations, local buses, and personal mobility options. Earlier installations of Mobility Hubs have already been established at key points like Chuo Line's Bentencho Station and Sennichimae Line's Kitatsumuri Station.

Car Sharing Details

With the launch of Times Car, users can expect:

• - Service Start Date: May 1, 2025, at 9:30 AM (tentative)
• - Availability: 24-hour service
• - Location & Fleet: The service will feature five vehicles at the Mobility Hub Bentencho, including models such as Yaris, Note e-POWER, MAZDA2, Aqua, and Solio.

Using Times Car

Utilizing the Times Car service is straightforward:
1. Reserve a vehicle using a smartphone or computer at the car-sharing station.
2. Use your membership card to unlock the door by scanning it at the sensor on the rear window, or unlock it via the Times Car app.
3. Retrieve the car key from the glove box's key box located in the passenger seat.
4. Drive the vehicle as you normally would and return it to the original car-sharing station.

Pricing

The basic class rates will start at 50 for every 15 minutes, making it an affordable option for urban travelers seeking flexibility and ease of use. In addition, Times Mobility is planning a car-sharing campaign to promote usage and awareness of this new service.

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance urban mobility, Osaka Metro and Times Mobility are committed to expanding their services, delivering improved transportation solutions for the residents and visitors of Osaka. For more information, please visit the official Times Car website: Times Car Website.

With the introduction of the Times Car service at the Bentencho Mobility Hub, Osaka is set to make a significant stride toward a more connected and efficient transportation network.