Europcar simplifies EV rental and charging

Convenient policy gives drivers extra range and quicker drop-offs

Europcar has revised its battery charging policy for cars and vans with a view to maximising driving time during an electric vehicle (EV) rental while also reducing charging and range anxiety. 

What this means is that at the beginning of a rental, electric vehicles will be provided with at least 80% charge - drivers are only required to return the vehicle with just 20% charge. 

With recent research highlighting that range anxiety is still a barrier for nearly half of motorists, Europcar believes this new industry-leading initiative is critical to building consumer and business confidence.

“If you’re rushing to drop off a vehicle to catch a flight or a train, the last thing you want is to be searching for a suitable charger and waiting for the car to recharge – which is required by most rental companies,” explained Tom Middleditch, Head of Electric Mobility at Europcar Mobility Group UK.

“Our goal is to support more people to rent electric – for a real-world test drive to give them the confidence to make the switch. We have, therefore, simplified the process. 

“For some rental journeys, it’s unlikely the battery will even need to be topped up before returning the vehicle. However, for those that do it shouldn’t take more than five or 10 minutes for any of our EVs to reach 20%.”

Europcar vehicles will be provided to drivers with more than 80% charge, enabling them to travel a significant distance before stopping to charge. 

And with 65% of its rental stations equipped with EV chargers, Europcar can maximise fleet availability and reduce hassle for drivers by charging vehicles after they have been returned. This means drivers do not need to find a charging station near to drop-off and can continue their journey instead of spending time charging.

The Europcar Assistance Tool also enables customers to easily find the nearest charger while on their journey.  By charging when stopping, rather than stopping to charge, charging anxiety can be reduced.

Mr Middleditch added: “Our charging policy is designed to remove barriers to EV rental, enabling more people to give it a try and allay their fears around charging and battery range.

“At Europcar we have found that driving an EV is the best way to dispel myths and gain the knowledge that gives drivers confidence to go electric. With a detailed handover at collection, even first-time EV drivers can be confident as they take to the road.”