Why Choose an Electric Vehicle for Rental

With new high-speed charging hubs at airports, as well as growing fleets from rental companies, the convenience of driving an EV is now more accessible than ever. This shift not only supports sustainability but also aligns with forward-thinking policies and local initiatives. Below are some reasons why business travellers should opt for EV rentals if they are unable to travel by rail:

1) Pathway for zero emission vehicle transition by 2035

The government has laid out targets for 80% of new cars and 70% of new vans sold in Great Britain to be zero emission by 2030, increasing to 100% by 2035. With this new law coming into effect, the switch to EVs from internal combustion engines (ICE) is already on the rise and will only increase in the coming years. This will impact all automotive industries including car rental companies, who are already increasing their fleet of EVs. By making the switch now, business travellers are supporting the growth of the EV industry and increasing the demand for EV infrastructure, ultimately helping towards the switch by 2035.

2) Better carbon footprint

The most obvious reason for choosing an all-electric car is that they are better for the environment. They do not emit CO2 when driving and cause less air pollution, which is increasingly important in congested areas. Statistics show that they have a 50-80% better carbon footprint than petrol cars. Choosing an EV for rental can therefore help with travel policy compliance if sustainability is a key objective for your organisation.

3) More Comfortable Driving Experience

EVs not only make less noise when driving, but they can also offer a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. With more responsive acceleration, regenerative braking and a low centre of gravity, EVs can improve handling, comfort and safety, enhancing the overall driving experience. They also require little to no maintenance, meaning they are less likely to break down during your rental (59% less likely than ICE vehicles).

4) Lower Costs

EVs are not only better for the environment, but they also provide exclusive perks and discounts. In some towns and cities, there are no congestion charges for EVs and they are often exempt from charges in Clean Air Zones (CAZ). The introduction of Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) lanes in major cities like London will provide more efficiency and quicker journey times. EV drivers can also save money on parking as dedicated parking bays are often free. Depending on the vehicle type and charging point, EVs can also cost less to run, costing approximately half the price per mile compared to ICE vehicles.

5) Increasing Choice

Most major car rental companies are increasing their fleet of EVs offering renters more options to choose from. Sixt has boosted its EV availability by 30% whilst over 45% of Enterprise Car Club’s vehicles are now electric or hybrid. In February 2024, a third of all Europcar delivery and collection mileage was completed in an EV (surpassing their target of 25%). Europcar also offers a convenient charging policy, providing EVs with 50-80% charge at rental start and allowing returns with as little as 20% battery.

6) More charging availability

EV infrastructure is continuing to expand with new charging facilities opening in strategic locations across the UK. Stansted Airport has launched a state-of-the-art EV charging hub with 10 high-speed bays, enabling EVs to reach a full charge in just 30 minutes.

At London Gatwick, the new Gridserve facility offers 30 EV chargers, available 24/7 with contactless payment. Powered entirely by net zero energy, the fastest chargers can add up to 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Gatwick aims for at least 60% of airport journeys to use zero or ultra-low emissions vehicles by 2030.

Belfast City Airport has pioneered EV charging in Northern Ireland by installing twelve charging points in its Short Stay Car Park through a new partnership with Weev. This includes a Rapid Charger that can provide up to 100 miles of range in under 30 minutes.

Edinburgh Airport has expanded its EV charging facilities, adding 40 chargers across three car parks. The FastPark valet service now offers five chargers for passengers who want their vehicles charged during their trip.

At Selective Travel Management we are keen to help businesses reduce their carbon footprint and become more aware of their carbon usage when travelling. Our commitment to sustainability ensures that your choice in rentals supports broader environmental goals.