Why hire an electric car?

Q: How do I drive an Electric Vehicle?

The majority of electric vehicles have an automatic gearbox, so they don&#39;t have gears. Instead, a typical electric vehicle is a single speed vehicle with two pedals; the accelerator and brake. Everything else is the same as driving any other vehicle as it is only the engine type which differs.

Q: What if I the battery is flat, will I be left stranded?

Do not fear, we&#39;ll never leave you stranded! As with traditional vehicles, we offer roadside assistance as standard on our fleet of electric vehicles. For extra peace of mind you can upgrade your assistance package to our Roadside Assistance Plus or Roadside Assistance Express products for the length of your hire. You can find more information on these products <a href="https://www.europcar.co.uk/files/live/sites/Europcar.co.uk/files/tcs/UK%20TCS/UKTCsJanuary2022.pdf">here</a>.However, it is just as important to ensure your electric vehicle is full of &#39;juice&#39; as it is with a petrol or diesel vehicle. With proper planning, and the assistance of our national charging partner, Shell Recharge, this need never be an issue as you can easily and conveniently find the nearest charging station to you. If you have less than 10-20% battery charge available, it&#39;s always best to recharge as soon as you can rather than running the battery down even further.

Q: Are they really better for the environment?

Electric vehicles do not emit harmful emissions like Co2, so they certainly help offset your carbon footprint towards a more sustainable existence. But it&#39;s not a cure all, after all making electricity still generates Co2, though it is minimal from renewable sources such as wind or solar.

Zero Emission Life

Unleash the benefits of electric motoring

From the environmental impact to the savings made on fuel, electric vehicles are the future of mobility, so are you ready to make the switch?

Better for the environment Fully electric cars have zero tailpipe emissions, reducing your carbon footprint and moving towards a more sustainable future.

Easier on your wallet Driving an EV will lower your fuel costs by up to 80% compared to a petrol equivalent.

Convenience Drive freely in low emission zones - ideal for those jaunts across London and further afield.

Parking Benefit from free parking in a number of cities, some of which have charging facilities and dedicated parking bays.

Driving experience Electric vehicles are quieter, can be more comfortable and safer to drive. Plus all our vehicles are equipped with the latest technology, keeping you protected and connected while on the road.

Understanding Electric & Hybrid Vehicles

Electric Vehicles (EV) or Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

Powered solely by an electric, rechargeable battery, and electric engine with no traditional internal combustion engine parts
Exemption from London Congestion Charges, Clean Air Zone (CAZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees. They're also quiet, easy to drive and safer for the environment

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)

Low emission vehicles that use an electric motor to assist an internal combustion powered engine. Does not have a rechargeable battery as all energy is powered by the petrol or diesel engine.
Reduced fuel consumption and lower Co2 emissions
Also known as a Self-Charging Electric Vehicle

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)

Has both a traditional internal combustion engine, electric motor and rechargeable battery. Capable of driving between 30 to 60 miles in full electric mode before switching to hybrid once the battery is depleted.
Lower fuel consumption compared to a standard Hybrid, with higher electric range