ILC ARTICLE

Rental industry can accelerate EV adoption

26th April 2022

A new report has highlighted the key role the car rental industry can play in accelerating the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

The report has been published by The Electrification Coalition in partnership with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, following a trial in Orlando, Florida, which is home to the largest car rental market in the United States.

As part of the Drive Electric Orlando Rental Pilot, customers were offered electric vehicles to use during their holidays to theme parks and other popular destinations. It afforded them a first-hand experience of driving an EV, as well providing as free parking, free charging and valet services.

Following the trial, it was found that two-thirds of EV renters were more likely to purchase an EV as their next vehicle, while offering incentives could be a significant driver in EV uptake. It also concluded that rental companies must now prepare to incorporate EVs into their fleets. This means initiating staff training and installing onsite charging facilities.

Electrification Coalition Executive Director Ben Prochazka said, “Rental car companies operate some of the largest light-duty vehicle fleets in the country, so the electrification of this industry will be critical in the shift to an electric transportation future. Drive Electric Orlando put the consumer behind the wheel of an EV during a vacation – a perfect opportunity to experience all the benefits of this technology. The program engaged consumers during the early stages of EV market growth, and it can now serve as a roadmap for the rental car industry to go electric.”