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Every little thing you need to understand about electric cars and trucks

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.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to rent a car in Europe and then return it?

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.

This is not practical, however, as many people aren’t willing to pay more for additional mileage. Rental agencies often charge more to return a car to an area other than the one it was originally rented.

So unless you plan on traveling frequently, it may be better to pick only one country where you plan on staying for a while.

 

Is it possible to rent a car in Germany, and then return it to Switzerland?

The answer to this question depends on many factors, including what type of vehicle you are renting, how long you plan to spend driving, and whether you have any special requirements for your rental car, such as child seats, etc.

If you plan to drive from Munich or Zurich, you don’t need to rent a car. You can take public transport instead. A rental car may be an option for those who want to drive between Munich and Barcelona on holiday.

 

Do I need separate car insurance to drive in Europe?

If you are driving abroad and your insurer doesn’t cover them, you might consider purchasing additional insurance for drivers.

This is because different rules may apply to who is liable if an accident happens between cars from different countries.

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. You might be able to purchase it separately, also known as an ‘extended warranty’.

 

How much is a rental car per day in Europe?

We are unsure, but we think it is between $100 and $200 daily.

We recommend renting for at least 2 days, as there are so many activities and sights to see.

If you stay longer, you might want to consider buying a vehicle that would cost around $2000-$3000.

This will allow you to travel freely around Europe.

It is also worth checking if your credit company offers discounts on rental.

 

How do I document any pre-existing damage to the car rental?

Take all necessary documentation with you, including photos. If you don’t know the damage, ask for help from the agent when you are getting the vehicle inspected. If you find any damage, you might need to pay more for an inspection.

 

What documents do I need to drive in Europe?

All documentation is required for every country, including passports, visa requirements and customs clearance.

You will also need copies your passport, driving permit, and insurance policy. The policy should cover you while driving in Europe.

In certain countries, you may need to provide proof of ownership. This includes registration papers or a bill of sale.

Some countries require drivers to carry a valid driver’s license from their home country.

 

Statistics

External Links

enterprise.com

 

 

sixt.com

 

 

alamo.com

 

 

kayak.com

 

How To

12 Things You Need to Know About Renting A Car in Europe

What are the basics of renting a car abroad?

You need to be familiar with the basics of renting a car in Europe before you start driving. It really depends on which type of rental vehicle you choose. This list contains essential tips to make sure your trip runs smoothly.

  1. Your insurance policy. Before you travel, make sure that your auto policy covers foreign travel. Check out our guide on how to find cheap car insurance abroad.
  2. The correct documents. You will need a driver’s permit from your home country as well as several identification cards (passports and visas). To prove where you are and why. You should have these documents in hand so that you don’t miss deadlines.
  3. Road Rules. Pay attention to signage indicating speed limits, one way streets and pedestrian crossings. Driving in another country can lead to fines or accidents.
  4. Parking rules. Many cities require drivers only to park in designated areas. Before you arrive in town, make sure to check out the parking regulations.
  5. Gasoline. Gasoline. Prices vary depending on location and country. But, generally speaking, gasoline costs three times as much back home than it does there.
  6. Insurance requirements. Renters older than three years are subject to additional liability insurance in some countries. You should speak with your rental company for more details.
  7. GPS navigation systems. GPS navigation systems are becoming increasingly popular among travelers. However, if you don’t know how to use them properly, you can bring along a map with you and ask for directions.
  8. Radio stations. Radio stations may play music you don’t recognize. Don’t worry; press “0” to change the frequency to English.
  9. Seatbelts. European countries have a mandatory requirement for seat belts.
  10. Road tolls. Road tolls are common throughout Europe. Most can be paid at meters at major intersections.
  11. Speeding tickets. Speeding is strictly prohibited across large parts of Europe, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France, and Spain.
  12. Tipping. Tipping isn’t the same in Europe and North America as it used to be. Tipping isn’t a customary practice anywhere in the world. Try giving a round number, such as 10% or 15%.

 

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