Thinking about electric car hire UK for your next road trip? Here’s the quick answer: it’s a good choice for city travels, cost-effective on fuel, but requires meticulous planning. Let’s go through all the factors, from electric car hire costs to real electric car hire benefits, making it convenient for you.

Key Takeaways

• Save in cities – No ULEZ or Clean Air Zone charges.
• Economic to fuel – Electricity costs half that of petrol or diesel.
• Plan your charging – Use Apps like Zapmap to avoid surprises.
• Return it charged – Avoid a £50+ charge from the rental firms.
• Select the right car – An electric car is best suited for city travels and well-defined routes.

Why Go Electric?

As the world is advancing, the UK’s auto landscape is also changing. With the government’s focus on “zero-net”, people are considering electric cars more seriously. Beyond this, there’s also a practical side to it. 

Electric cars are easier and more fun to drive. You just need to turn it on and get away by pressing the accelerator. You don’t need to wait for the gears to catch up. Besides, these are eco-friendly and best to go for city trips. 

What About the Cost?

When we talk about electric car hire prices, the first question that pops into mind is: Will it actually save me money? On average, an electric car may cost £10 – £20 more per day than a petrol car. But have a look at the whole trip:

Example: 3 days in London

Now you see: an electric car goes better in the long term. 

Now consider a longer distance, like 500 miles per week. A petrol car fuel may cost up to £100, while an electric car may cost up to £45 in electricity. 

This is one of the main benefits of electric car hire. It may cost more on daily rental, but less on the entire trip. 

The Charging Question

Many people are anxious about the range of electric cars. However, the EV charging UK structure has grown exceptionally. There are more than 55,000 charging ports across the UK. Also, most modern EVs offer a range of 200 – 300 miles in a single charge. 

You can also use apps like ZapMap or Plugshare to know about the EV charging stations near you. The charging stations on motorways are super-fast, and add up to 100 miles in 10-15 minutes. While the chargers in the countryside are usually slower, best for overnight charging.

Returning the Car Charged

Many rental companies provide you with electric cars with a full charge and expect the same. If you return it low, they may charge you £50+ as a penalty. So spend 20 mins more for a rapid charge near the depot to save money. 

Also, ask them if they offer a “prepaid charge” option. If yes, you can return it with a low charge, for a fixed fee. Sometimes, this fixed fee may be less than a rapid charge. 

Is it Really Eco-Friendly?

If you want an eco-friendly car hire, go for it, as it has zero tailpipe emissions. It minimises your footprint on the road to the lowest. It also helps you save money, as a normal petrol car in Central London would have to pay the ULEZ charge. 

Hiring an electric car is also beneficial as it helps you save on parking fees. Many designated bays and places have free parking available for EVs. This adds another perk to electric car hire UK.

5 Quick Tips for A Smooth Hire

• Download ZapMap: This is the UK standard to check live charger availability and the user reviews.

• Check the cables: Some cars have slow chargers. So always check beforehand. 

• Know your networks: different apps for Ionity, Gridserve, etc. Set them up beforehand. Having an RFID card or app ready saves faff at the charger.

• Go for extra range: If you plan a 150-mile trip, get a car with 250-mile range. Odd weather, hills, and speed can sharply increase the range.  
• Return charged: Return the car with a full charge. This saves you from a penalty and the stress of finding a charger at the last moment. 

So, is Electric Car Hire UK Worth it?

Despite all the perks of EVs, electric vehicle rental isn’t for everyone. If you are heading to major cities or well-connected areas, an electric car is a go-to option. They are the perfect choice with low costs, tax exemption and quieter rides.

However, if you are travelling to the countryside or remote areas, prefer a petrol car. But as EV car hire UK is expanding, there are more chargers on the motorways, and small towns are also catching up.

Know your trip, plan accordingly and enjoy your drive to the fullest. 

FAQs

Can I charge my EV for free from anywhere?

Free charging is rare but is available at a few places like supermarkets, shopping malls and hotels. You need to play via app or card. For a long trip, don’t rely on free charging but plan to pay for a convenient drive.

Are electric cars no longer the future?

Electric cars are already deciding the future. The electric car sales are increasing every year in the UK. The electric car hire benefits, like tax exemption and lower running costs, make it a smart choice.  

What happens if you run off a charge in an EV on a road?

If you run out of battery, you’ll most likely need road assistance, just like a petrol car. Most electric vehicle rental companies include a breakdown cover to take the car to the nearest charger. However, this can also be avoided with proper planning. 

Should I hire an EV or a hybrid?

Choose an EV if you want lower costs, ULEZ exemption and an eco-friendly option in well-connected areas. Choose a petrol car if you are unsure about EV charging UK availability on your route. 

Is it cheaper to hire an electric car?

Though electric car hire costs more for daily rental, they cost less over the entire trip. You need to take all the factors into account. This way, you’ll typically pay less for an EV over a petrol car.