Consumers' internet use and car sharing in Sweden : exploring digitalization in the sharing economy

This study investigates car sharing participation in Sweden within the broader context of sharing economy platforms. Its objective is to explore the relationship between internet use and car sharing, while accounting for residential area, gender, and age. The analysis is based on nationally representative survey data collected between 2019 and 2023 (N = 8762). Initial results indicate a weak positive association between internet use and car sharing. However, this association disappears when age is considered, suggesting that age mediates the relationship. The final analysis shows that car sharing is more common among urban residents, males, and younger consumers. The findings have implications for theory, managerial practice, and policymaking. The study also addresses methodological limitations and outlines directions for future research on the behavioral, social, and structural factors influencing participation in car sharing services.