E-Vai car-sharing service to end in Lombardy, sparking Brescia political dispute

The station-based car-sharing service E-Vai, operated by the FNM Spa group, will cease operations for private customers across the Lombardy region starting September 1. The decision to terminate the service, which aimed to integrate public transport with electric vehicle sharing, has sparked political controversy in Brescia.

Opposition members from Fratelli d’Italia have criticized the Brescia municipal administration, specifically targeting Deputy Mayor and Mobility Assessor Federico Manzoni, labeling the shutdown a “strategic failure” for sustainable mobility. They argue the move reduces alternatives to private car ownership and increases parking costs.

Federico Manzoni has rejected these accusations, stating that the Municipality is a “wronged party” rather than the responsible entity. He noted that the contract was intended to run until February 2028. Brescia Mobilità has been tasked with contesting the decision, seeking to uphold existing commitments and evaluating potential damages caused by the service interruption. The city is currently exploring alternative solutions to maintain car-sharing services, though officials noted a new system cannot be established immediately.