Trying something new at 71? For Rudolf, it was exactly the right time. After decades of buying his cars, he opted for Carvolution. Today, he is already driving his second car. But what made him change his mind, and what is his verdict after his experiences so far?
At the end of 2024, Rudolf took the plunge: with Carvolution, he drives his car for a fixed monthly price – with transparent costs where everything from insurance to tyres and servicing is included. Having started with a Volvo XC60, Rudolf is now on the road in a fully electric Zeekr 7X. In this interview, he explains why he was fed up with the depreciation of buying a car, why his neighbours chuckled at him, and just how fair the vehicle handover process at Carvolution really was.
How did you hear about Carvolution, and why did you start looking for an alternative after all those years of buying cars the traditional way?
I remember it very well. I had sold my old car and needed to think about how I wanted to stay mobile in the future. At the age of 71, I started wondering whether I really wanted to spend a lot of money on another car. After all, you never know how much longer you will be able or allowed to drive yourself. While looking into alternatives, I came across an advert for Carvolution on Facebook.
What was it about Carvolution’s concept that convinced you?
Above all, it was the flexibility and transparent costs. At the end of my subscription, I can decide freely whether I want to change cars, choose a new model or extend my existing subscription. And I always know exactly how much I am paying.
This is particularly relevant when it comes to electric mobility, as the technology is developing incredibly quickly. This way, I can keep up with the latest developments without finding myself stuck with an outdated car after five years. And if I particularly like a car from Carvolution, I still have the option of buying it at the end of my subscription.
How did you view the costs involved in buying your previous cars?
Generally speaking, it was always fine, but over the years I naturally became aware of how much money you lose simply through depreciation. If you buy a car for CHF 70,000, you need to have that money available in the first place. And as soon as you drive it off the forecourt, it has already lost value.
On top of that, maintenance is becoming increasingly expensive. Cars contain so much complex technology that even relatively minor repairs can end up costing a fortune. For example, the LED headlight on my Volvo broke. It wasn't simply a case of replacing a bulb; the entire unit had to be replaced. The part alone cost CHF 1,800, excluding labour.
Did you calculate the costs of Carvolution in advance and compare them with your previous arrangement?
Yes, absolutely. I looked closely at the offers and compared other car subscription providers, too. With leasing, the monthly payment might seem slightly cheaper at first glance. However, you have to pay for servicing, new tyres and various other costs yourself. It all adds up very quickly.
With Carvolution, all of this is already included in the price. After making the initial payment, I now pay CHF 560 a month for my Zeekr 7X. I think that's absolutely reasonable. When I think that a single new tyre used to cost me over CHF 300, it feels like a very good deal.
What was the advantage of being able to make an initial payment?
It was ideal for me. When I took out my first subscription with Carvolution for the Volvo XC60, I had just sold my old car and was able to use the proceeds directly towards the initial payment. That meant I could put the money to good use while keeping my monthly costs down.
Why did you choose the Volvo XC60 initially, followed by the Zeekr 7X through Carvolution?
I had previously bought a Volvo XC60 and was very happy with it. That's why I chose exactly the same model again when I joined Carvolution. However, I had been interested in electric mobility for quite some time and wanted to explore it in more depth.
The hybrid allowed me to gain some initial experience. But it quickly became clear to me that my next car should be fully electric. Then I came across the Zeekr 7X, and my mind was made up. It was love at first sight!
How did you find returning your Volvo and collecting your Zeekr?
Naturally, I had done a bit of research beforehand and had also read some critical reports about returning cars to Carvolution. However, I always keep my cars very clean and take good care of them. The return appointment turned out to be a very pleasant and professional experience. The member of staff on site was incredibly friendly and accepted the Volvo without any fuss. There was some parking damage to one of the doors, which I was able to cover through Carvolution's parking damage insurance. In the meantime, I was able to collect my new Zeekr straight away.
How did you find the return report and the assessment of the damage?
I received a very detailed report – almost like a book! It allowed me to see exactly what counted as normal wear and tear and what was considered damage I had actually caused myself. I thought the inspection and assessment were absolutely fair.
How have friends, family and neighbours reacted to your switch to a car subscription and electric mobility?
I've had quite a few discussions with neighbours and acquaintances about it. After all, not everyone is convinced by electric mobility. But once you've driven an electric car, you don't really want to go back. The driving experience alone, the quietness and the power are enough to win me over. I'm also conscious of the environmental impact and CO₂ emissions.
As I can't charge my car at home, I use public charging stations. That works perfectly well. On longer journeys, the car plans the charging stops for me via the navigation system and shows me where I can charge along the way. That works without any problems, too.
How have you found the Carvolution team throughout your time with the car subscription so far?
So far, everything I've dealt with through Carvolution has been absolutely straightforward. I think the way everything is handled is fantastic, because that is incredibly important. Buying a car is one thing, but if something comes up afterwards, you need to be able to rely on the team. Good customer service is essential to me – it's what makes me feel valued as a customer.
Looking back today, are you happy with your decision, and would you choose Carvolution again?
I'm very happy. Not just reasonably happy, but genuinely very happy. I've always been delighted with Carvolution's car subscription, and with my new Zeekr, I'm even happier, of course. I would make exactly the same decision again without hesitation.
