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I sold my truck in July 2021 and have been car-free since. I used my bicycle for transportation until I injured my foot in June 2023, and I purchased an e-bike in September 2023. I love my e-bike, and it's made my life much easier. Still, I've always been an adventurer, and I've been missing taking drives to other areas away from my home. I've been researching vehicles and have even applied for financing got approved, and ordered a new car.
Before I accepted delivery of the car, I had second thoughts and canceled the order. I continued looking at vehicles, watching reviews on YouTube, and contacting local dealers when a car caught my attention. The number of emails and phone calls I've received from the dealerships tells me it must be really tough in the car market right now.
Several articles I read and videos I watched indicated uncertain times ahead for the auto industry and the economy in general.
Further research on the costs of car ownership opened my eyes even more.
As I mentioned above, I always enjoyed taking trips to areas away from my home which is challenging on a bicycle though not impossible, I rode across the USA in 2017. Still, to take a long trip to visit family or friends would be difficult. I can always rent a car or fly. Plus, I came across a car sharing website called TURO that looks like it may be a great option. If you've used TURO please leave your thoughts in the comments.
During my time being car-free, I've managed through various resources that can deliver anything I've needed.
I've also utilized ride-share services from Uber and Lyft when needed. Culdesac Tempe - "Life at your front door"
Image Courtesy of Culdesac Tempe
You may have heard on the news that there is a new, totally car-free community in Tempe, Arizona. It looks pretty interesting and they have partnered with bike companies, ride-share businesses and more. The community includes apartments for rent, with transportation, shopping, restaurants and more all within walking or cycling distance.
Learn more about Culdesac Tempe
If you are a car owner or are just doing research, I recommend checking out the website Caredge.com. The site is run by a 43 year car sales professional and his son. There is a wealth of research resources and they also have an informative and entertaining YouTube channel. The video below I found especially interesting:
IT'S OFFICIALLY THE WORST TIME EVER TO OWN A CAR!
Full Disclosure: I'm in my mid 60's, work from home and live full-time in an RV park.
With so many convenient options to get what I need and get where I want to go, I plan to continue my car-free lifestyle utilizing my e-bike for the bulk of my transportation needs. 
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