6 Essential Tips for Renting an Electric Vehicle (EV)

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular and offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for travelers. As EV rentals become more easily accessible, drivers now have the option to choose one as a rental.

If you're considering an EV car rental for your next vacation, here are some important things you should know to make the most of your electric car rental experience.

1. Familiarize Yourself with Electric Cars

Unlike gas cars, which rely on fuel, electric cars are powered by electricity, providing immediate and smooth acceleration. You'll need to understand how to charge the vehicle, as it requires access to electric charging stations rather than traditional gas pumps.

While charging stations are becoming more common, planning your route and being conscious of charging station availability along the way is essential.

Reserve an EV from Hertz in advance and you'll receive super-informative emails with everything you need to plan your trip - from tips for your first drive and how to charge an electric vehicle, to the range and more.

2. Consider the Range

Electric cars come in different ranges, so it's crucial to choose a model that suits your travel needs. EV ranges are grouped into four main categories: under 200 miles, between 200 and 249 miles, between 250 and 299 miles and 300 miles or more.

Ahead of booking your EV rental, consider car features like an extended range and battery size, ample seating and the distance between charging stations to your destination. With the AAA TripTik Travel Planner, you can locate all the available charging stations along your route.

3. Ensure Adequate Insurance Coverage

Don't overlook the importance of insurance when renting an EV. Make sure you have the right insurance coverage in place to protect yourself financially in case of an accident. Your personal auto insurance will cover most rental cars with the same coverage limits and deductibles.

Check with a AAA car insurance advisor to ensure you have adequate coverage for your EV car rental. Additionally, carefully review the rental company's insurance policy to understand the protection they offer for you and the vehicle.

4. Eco-Friendly Benefits

Renting an EV not only saves you money on fuel costs but also contributes to a greener environment. Electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an eco-friendlier option compared to traditional gas-engine vehicles. By choosing an EV, you can reduce your carbon footprint during your vacation.

5. Discover a Different Experience

Be prepared for a different driving experience with an electric car. While EVs are relatively easy to drive, there may be some nuances you'll need to get used to, such as instant torque and regenerative braking. Electric motors deliver power instantly, providing quick acceleration and a smooth driving experience.

Unlike gas-powered cars that need to shift gears, electric cars offer a continuous and seamless drive. When driving an EV, you'll notice that the car starts slowing down as soon as you release the accelerator, thanks to regenerative braking. This feature may take some getting used to, but it also enhances the driving range and saves energy.

6. Enjoy the Perks

While there may be a learning curve when driving an electric car, it comes with unique perks. Take advantage of reserved parking spaces designated for electric vehicles and explore the AAA Mobile app to help you easily locate charging stations.

Embracing the perks of electric car ownership can add to the enjoyment of your EV car rental experience.

Bonus Tip! Avoiding Range Anxiety

Before your EV rental trip, research the availability of charging stations in the area you plan to visit. Most EVs come with a charging cable for use at home, but you might need additional cabling or adaptors for public charging stations. Some cities offer free or discounted charging at public stations, making it cost-effective to recharge your EV.

AAA Members can use the AAA Mobile app to find nearby EV charging stations and get access to more discounts and incentives. By taking advantage of these offers, you can further reduce your overall rental costs. Many EVs have a built-in feature to find charging stations within their navigation system that specifies the speed and cost per charge to help you plan.

AAA offers daily savings to help you get the best deals. Enjoy exclusive Member benefits on Hertz electric and traditional vehicles when you rent through AAA.

Members can save up to 20% off the base rate on EV rentals, add a free additional driver, receive free use of a child safety seat, have the Young Renter fee waived and more*. Book your EV rental cars conveniently through AAA.

*Discount applies to pay later base rate. Taxes and fees are excluded. Additional restrictions apply. Visit AAA.com/CarRental for complete terms and conditions.