Vehicle ownership vs. mobility services: Economic considerations

Deciding between vehicle ownership and alternative mobility options has become an increasingly economic decision driven by individual usage patterns and rising maintenance costs.

For those requiring permanent availability or high mileage, purchasing a vehicle remains a viable option as it builds personal assets. However, for urban users with limited needs, short-term rentals, long-term renting, or mobility platforms offer advantages by avoiding large capital outlays and fixed costs like insurance, parking, and maintenance.

In Argentina, the financial burden of car ownership is rising significantly. Data from Focus Market indicates that the monthly maintenance basket for a compact 2025 model rose from $762,262 to $1,096,229 in one year, representing a 44% annual increase. Key drivers of this inflation include garage fees, which rose 65%, and vehicle registration taxes, which increased by 60%.