SamTrans is launching a new program that will allow member organizations to find and borrow fleet vehicles like shuttles and vans at reasonable rates, the agency announced yesterday.

The Peninsula Fleet Share Program is an 18-month pilot project being funded through a combination of grant and matching funds. 

The purpose is to create more efficient use of vehicle capacity through a program that allows members to sign up for service, then search out the types and sizes of vehicles that meet their needs through an online registry.

Lending organizations can use the program to offset the costs of owning large shuttles and vans by renting them out through the fleet sharing service. Renters benefit from rates that are substantially lower than commercial rental services.

Registrants can gain access to a range of vehicles owned by cities and organizations and may also advertise their own vehicles and rates, as well as rates for drivers, so others may borrow from their fleets, according to SamTrans.

Registrants may also lend an unused vehicle or borrow a vehicle to temporarily increase capacity of an existing fleet, offer a special outing for seniors, provide job training transportation or transport community members to park and recreation programs, according to SamTrans.

The program is designed to allow cities, agencies and other organizations in San Mateo County borrow passenger vehicles when they need them and lend their vehicles to other organizations when they are not being used.

The goal is to save money for some groups while others can generate revenue by lending their vehicles.

New members will be able to sign up free of charge during the introductory period, which ends June 28.

To learn more about the program visit www.peninsulafleetshare.com.