1 September 2011

Europcar to launch the first electric hire car

By adding the Peugeot iOn to its UK vehicle fleet, Europcar have demonstrated their commitment to the environment and the idea of 'green' driving.

By adding the Peugeot iOn to its UK vehicle fleet, Europcar have demonstrated their commitment to the environment and the idea of ‘green' driving.

Europcar has become the first daily rental provider to add an electric car to its fleet.

Drivers who want to drive ‘green' will find this car at Europcar locations designated for electric vehicles. These locations include Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton Airport locations, as well as Marble Arch and King's Cross – ideal for those arriving on the Eurostar train.

For the moment, electric vehicles will be available for one day hire only, in order to ensure they are properly recharged. The vehicles can only be returned to the Europcar locations mentioned above.

This news follows last October's announcement of Europcar's global partnership with PSA Peugeot Citroen, and responds to increasing demand for access to electric vehicles to rent.

Car hire goes greener

Among its environmental benefits, the Peugeot iOn is silent and will not emit any CO2 or other pollutants. Furthermore, this innovative vehicle is also exempt from congestion charges in key UK cities providing important cost advantages for business users.

"This is a tremendously exciting initiative for us” said Ken McCall, Managing Director, Europcar Group UK. "Demand for electric vehicles to rent is really starting to pick up as both businesses and leisure drivers want to make the most of both the environmental and cost advantages.”

"Demonstrating the fact that we are listening to our customers' constantly evolving needs, Europcar is the first UK rental provider to add the new Peugeot iOn to its fleet. This also reflects our core commitments to sustainable development and technological innovation,” he added.

Car hire is a crucial service for both tourists arriving to the UK and British citizens who don't own a car. With this new electric car, the car rental sector takes a big step closer to becoming more ‘eco-friendly.'