Renting electric vehicle

Question

I'm planning to rent a car for a six-week trip from mid-October to Thanksgiving. On Costco Travel, an electric car is over 30% less than a gas vehicle. I reserved a "Kia Niro or similar vehicle" from Budget. There's also a Thunderbird from Avis.

QUESTIONS: Will Budget include a charging cable with it?

Why is it so cheap to rent, anyway? The Niro costs over $40,000.

Any other thoughts are appreciated. Thank you.

Answer

Renting an electric vehicle (EV) like the Kia Niro for a six-week trip can be a great deal, but there are a few nuances to consider.

1. Charging cable inclusion:

Most major rental companies, including Budget, generally provide a Level 1 (standard 120V) charging cable with the vehicle. Some may include a Level 2 (240V) cable, but this is less common.
It’s important to confirm at pickup. Policies can vary by location, and some locations may have dedicated EV charging stations on-site.
Some EVs also come with adapters for public charging stations, but not all. Always check with the rental counter to ensure you have the necessary cables and adapters for your trip.

2. Why the rental is so cheap:

Rental rates for EVs can appear lower than gas vehicles because:
- Rental companies are often trying to promote their EV fleets and gain experience with them.
- High resale value of EVs means the depreciation risk for the rental company is lower.
- There may be incentives or tax credits that reduce costs for the rental company.
Also, EV demand among long-term renters is still growing, so some companies price aggressively to attract customers.

3. Other considerations for your trip:

Range: Check the Niro’s range (usually ~250 miles for a full charge). For long drives in Central Arizona or interstate trips, plan charging stops carefully.
Charging infrastructure: Phoenix and major highways in Central Arizona have growing EV charging networks (Level 2 and DC fast chargers). Apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint are useful.
Extra costs: Some rental companies charge an EV “premium fee” or higher insurance for EVs. Check your reservation details carefully.
Driving habits: EVs perform well in city and moderate-speed driving, but longer highway trips may require careful planning to avoid range anxiety.

In summary, yes, a charging cable is likely included but verify at pickup. The low rental cost is mostly due to rental company strategies and high resale value, not the actual market price of the vehicle. Plan your charging stops ahead and enjoy the efficiency and comfort of driving an EV on your trip.

Renting electric vehicle

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