The expectation is that by 2035 at least 60% of global vehicle sales will correspond to the electric car category; find out how to rent yours with Rentcars in an easy, practical and economical way
Electric cars are a market trend not only because of the environmental aspect and the reduction of pollutant emissions, but also because of the savings these vehicles offer when it comes to fueling. Big brands such as Volvo, Ford, Mercedes, and Volkswagen have already set goals to increase the production and sales of electric cars, which is a great stimulus for the growth of the category.
In the USA, the cost of an electric vehicle should become as cheap as traditional models as early as 2024. Ford even plans to produce more than 2 million electric vehicles annually by 2026 – which represents a third of the total production volume.
In the UK, starting in 2030, automakers will only be allowed to sell electric cars. In Europe, in general, the deadline is a little longer, but not quite as long: 2035.
Some international conventions, such as the Paris Agreement, reinforce actions that seek to reduce the greenhouse effect and, therefore, these vehicles gain even more power. There are even projections indicating that 60% of global sales should correspond to electric cars in the next decade.
How does the electric car motor work?
Electric cars work by taking electricity from the grid through a plug at a charging point. They then store electricity in rechargeable batteries that power the electric motor, which turns the wheels. In addition, electric vehicles accelerate faster than models with traditional fuel engines and are lighter to drive.
What types of electric cars are there?
There are models that run purely on electricity, called pure electric vehicles. And others that, in addition to the possibility of electricity, can run on gasoline or diesel, and are called hybrid electric vehicles.
Plug-in electric: This means that the car runs exclusively on electricity and is charged when plugged in. This type of vehicle produces no emissions like traditional cars.
Plug-in hybrid: These cars run mainly on electricity, but also have a traditional fuel engine, fuelled by gasoline or diesel, that is started if the car runs out of charge. When running on fuel, these cars will produce emissions, but when running on electricity, they will not. Plug-in hybrids are recharged at some power source.
Electric-hybrid: These run mainly on fuel such as gasoline or diesel, but also have an electric battery, which is recharged through regenerative braking. They allow you to switch between using the fuel engine and ‘electric’ mode at the touch of a button. These cars cannot be connected to a source of electricity and rely on gasoline or diesel.
How does charging work?
The main way is to connect the car to a public charging station or with home power. In Europe, for example, there are many charging stations, which puts the driver at ease.
How long it takes to charge an electric car?
There are three charging speeds for electric cars:
Slow charging: usually rated up to 3kW. Often used for charging overnight or at the workplace. Charging time: 8-10 hours.
Quick charging: usually rated at 7Kw or 22kW. They are usually installed in parking lots, supermarkets, leisure centers, or homes with off-street parking. Charging time: 3-4 hours.
Fast charging: typically rated from 43kW. Compatible only with electric cars that are capable of this type of charging. Charging time: 30-60 minutes.
It’s important to remember that the weather interferes with the quantity of energy your electric car consumes: in summer the reach is greater, in winter it’s less.
So, are you ready to drive an electric car?
Europcar is one of today’s largest electric or traditional car rental companies. It was founded in 1949 and has more than 200,000 vehicles and service in over 140 countries worldwide. If you are planning to travel soon, Europcar is a great choice for your car rental. Book your car rental now and enjoy your trip!
Explore the world by car!
Rentcars is the practical way to rent a car: you compare the best car rental companies in the world and choose the best option to fit your budget and your travel schedule. Plus, you can take advantage of year-round promotions, with discounts of up to 30%OFF on car rental rates around the world. Make your reservation and enjoy your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you rent a car from one European country to return it to another?
Renting cars in multiple locations is one way you can make your travels easier. But, it’s important to return the cars where they were rented.
However, this idea might not be very practical because people don’t want to pay for extra mileage. Rental agencies often charge more to return a car to an area other than the one it was originally rented.
If you do not plan to travel often, you may choose to stay only in one country.
Can my car policy cover me for renting cars in foreign countries
Insurance companies now cover rentals in other countries as part of their overall coverage. For example, if you rent a car from Hertz in Europe, you may have protection for any damage or loss done while driving the rental vehicle. Mexico offers the same protections if you rent your car. You may also be eligible for waivers from liability or collision damages. These types of policies can be discussed with your agent.
Does Chase Sapphire cover car rental insurance in Ireland?
Yes, you can purchase additional EUR15 per day to insure your vehicle. There are many optional extras that you can access, such as breakdown assistance, theft insurance and personal accident insurance.
Is it necessary to have separate car insurance in order to drive in Europe
While driving abroad, you may consider taking out additional cover for other drivers on your policy if your current insurer does not cover them.
This is due to the fact that there could be different rules about who is responsible if an accident takes place between two cars from different nations.
If you decide to take out this extra cover, then make sure you read the small print carefully, as some policies will exclude certain types of cover.
Also, verify if your existing policy covers international travel. This is what’s commonly known as an “extended Warranty” and you may find it more cost-effective to purchase it individually.
What is the best road trip in Europe?
You should take the time to stop and explore along your route, not just speeding from one place to another.
There are many great roads in Europe, but few are as beautiful as the route between Venice and Dubrovnik.
You will drive through stunning scenery most of your trip. There are numerous stops along the road to stop and take in all the sights.
Highlights include Torcello and Lido di Jesolo at Lake Garda, Northern Italy’s Dolomites & Lake Como, as well the Walled Medieval City of Carcassonne.
When I rent a car from the United States, is hail damage my responsibility?
Your insurance company will cover any damage caused by natural events such as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, etc. For clarification, please contact your rental agency if you are not sure if the rental vehicle is covered.
Which countries are willing to accept US drivers licenses?
The United States does a not recognize driver’s licenses issued by other countries as valid for use on its roads. They are accepted by Canada, Mexico, the District of Columbia, and other countries.
Canada recognizes American driver licenses issued by all 50 United States and District of Columbia.
Mexico recognizes American driver’s licences. At this time they are only recognized by the state of Chihuahua.
The District of Columbia accepts American drivers’ licenses from all 50 States, with the exception of Alabama, Mississippi and Texas.
Statistics
- The perks vary from partner to partner, but you can expect discounts of up to 35 percent on some rentals and the ability to earn anywhere from 50 bonus American AAdvantage miles per day or 500 per rental. (afar.com)
- In 2019, the most crucial factor is the cost and fees of the rental (accounting for 28% of overall satisfaction with the rental experience), followed by the rental car itself at 25% and the pick-up process at 23%. (cnet.com)
- American Airlines, for example, offers AAdvantage members 35% off Budget and Avis — but you need to rent from an airport. (nerdwallet.com)
- Automatics are more expensive (usually about 50 percent more) and may only be available if you upgrade to a bigger, pricier car. (ricksteves.com)
- If you’re a member of AAA, you might also be able to snag discounts of 10 percent at Thrifty, and 8 percent at Dollar. (afar.com)
External Links
kayak.com
alamo.com
avis.com
jdpower.com
How To
Tips for Booking a Rental Car In Europe
Europe is divided in countries and cities. The most popular destinations include Paris, London, Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, and Berlin. Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Avis are just a few of the car rental companies that offer worldwide services. These companies are located at major airports, stations, and urban centers. They usually provide cars with drivers and fuel included. Renting a Volkswagen Polo can be done for as little at EUR 40 per night.
The booking process varies slightly depending on your destination country. There are many payment options available in some countries, such as Spain. Sometimes, the price includes taxes. Before making reservations, make sure to check out the website. If you do not know where you want to go or if you simply prefer to drive yourself, check out these companies:Alamo,Avis,Europcar,Budget,National, andThrifty
