Sharing economy platforms: A path towards progress or inequality?

• Main Author: Jökull Jóhannsson 1992-
• Other Authors: Háskóli Íslands
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: 2017
• Subjects: Viðskiptafræði; Rafbílar; Rekstrarhagræðing; Þjónusta við viðskiptavini; Tvinnbílar; Reykjavík; Iceland
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1946/29045

The thesis aims to estimate and give an insight into the potential of allowing owners of electric and hybrid cars to share their charing stations in Iceland. The multisided platform business model was examined along with the sharing economy concept in a broad scope. A quantitative survey of 54 electric and hybrid car owners and enthusiasts was conducted to estimate the viability of the service, establish potential problems and examine the viewpoints of the consumers regarding the idea. The research and survey indicate that the solution is not economically viable in the capital area in 2017 due to the cost of setup and the presence and competiton from public charging stations. However, for rural areas, the research indicates that the service has greater merit due to greater distances beween charging stations and the higher cost of running out of power there. A test case was planned where the functionality of the solution is to be examined at a single location in collaboration with Ísorka, Reykjavík City and Auroracoin. Further phases of the testing are now under consideration with the aforementioned parties.