New French website helps you donate an old car to a good cause

A new online platform is hoping to make it easier for people to donate cars they no longer have a use for to people in need.

There are dozens of garages solidaires throughout France, low-cost garages aimed at those who need a vehicle but struggle with the cost, where it is possible to donate your old car so they can sell it or rent it out.

Now, automobile club Roole has teamed up with Solidarauto, a network of garages solidaires, to create donnezvotrevoiture.org, which will put you in touch with your nearest participating garage.

Car donors can get tax reduction

Anastasia Debret, project manager at Roole, said: “Not many people know you can donate your car. We want to make it easier by providing the link between the donor and the garage.”

They have received 290 offers of donations since launching in November.

There are currently 11 certified garages, vetted to make sure they undertake reliable repairs and are associations, meaning donors can benefit from a tax reduction – with the aim to have at least 20 by the end of the year.

Read more: What should you do if your vehicle breaks down on a French motorway?

Cars rented or sold at lower rates

Most donations are from individuals, but Roole is also looking to target professionals, such as dealers and companies that maintain a fleet of vehicles.

“In general, these cars will be in better condition, meaning they cost less to repair.”

The cars are either rented out for around €5 to €10 per day, or sold, generally for between €1,500 and €3,000.

Garages solidaires can also help buyers to obtain financial aid, and when it comes to repairs, labour rates are capped at between €30 and €40 per hour.

Read more: How do you register a used car in France?

Beneficiaries are unemployed or low income

Beneficiaries must usually earn below a certain income, using the Quotient Familial calculated by the CAF, or be sent by Pôle emploi.

“There are lots of areas in France where transport is a real issue in terms of finding and keeping a job,” Ms Debret said.

People who do not qualify can still have their car repaired there but will pay full price.

Donors will be asked to enter their name, address and car registration online, and a nearby garage will decide whether it is worthwhile taking the car.

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