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Electric vehicles (also known as EVs) are becoming increasingly popular in the travel world. As driving range improves and chargers become more plentiful across the U.S., using EVs on road trips and participating in sustainable living is becoming much more viable. And with more car rental companies offering EVs, you don’t have to own one to make your next vacation more environmentally friendly.
But even with improved charging infrastructure, an EV road trip is still very different from a long drive in a gas-powered car. Here are some tips and locations where you can rent an EV for an eco-friendly road trip in the US.
The past five years have seen most major rental car companies add EVs to their fleets. Hertz led the way in 2021 when it added Tesla, Chevrolet Bolt and other brands to its fleet. Although the company has scaled back its EV fleet in recent months, you can still see them in most major cities.
Hertz has several different EV options. The most common EVs in Tesla’s fleet are the Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model Y, and Polestar 2. In some cities, you may also find a Kia EV6.
The Model Y has a range of 310 miles, the longest of the trio. Additionally, it is the largest, so it may be preferred for long drives and transporting luggage and bags. It’s also the most convenient for charging, with access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network.
Other rental car companies also carry EVs. Avis has an EV fleet consisting of the Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Volt, but other models may be available nationwide. EVs may also be found in some domestic and corporate locations.
Are you planning to take advantage of the car rental liability waiver included with your travel credit card? Make sure your EV is also covered, as it’s not always guaranteed.
For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card’s rental car coverage specifically does not include Teslas (PDF link). For more information about your credit card’s rental car insurance policy, please see our Cardholder Benefits Guide.
Additionally, be aware that some rental car companies require you to charge a percentage before returning the rental car. For example, Hertz requires you to return your car with the same level of charge as you started with (often around 80% in my experience).
If the vehicle is returned with a low state of charge, there will be a $35 charging fee upon returning the vehicle. Gold Plus Rewards — Hertz’s free loyalty program — members are charged a low fee of $25.
Check with your rental car company before you leave to avoid surprise charges. Prices vary depending on the rental company and location.
Unfortunately, EV chargers are still harder to find than gas stations. But on the bright side, fast chargers (often called Level 3 chargers) are now being installed on major highways and cities across the country.
Chargers usually belong to a specific charging network. Some of the most common services in the US include ChargePoint, Electrify America, and EVgo. Typically, you start a charging session using a charging network’s mobile app, so it’s worth downloading these apps and creating an account before setting out on your EV road trip.
Tesla has its own charging network called Tesla Superchargers, which can be found all over the world. We’ve found that these chargers work better than other major charging networks, but many only work with Tesla vehicles. However, this situation is changing as the company opens its network to more EVs. For more information, visit this page on his Tesla website.
Speaking of charging, it’s best to download an EV route planning app before you head out on your road trip. This helps you find the most efficient route to your destination and shows you chargers along the way.
One good option is Plug Share, which is available online and as a mobile app. Just enter the type of EV you drive and where you’re traveling to and from, and the app will show you chargers along the route that are compatible with your vehicle.
Teslas have a built-in route planner, which in my experience is good for planning long distance routes. Tesla Superchargers will appear along your route and will appear on your Tesla infotainment screen, adjusting your route depending on your car’s current charging status.
Many hotels are adding on-site charging capabilities as an amenity for guests. These are typically Level 2 chargers, which charge slower than Level 3 chargers. However, if you’re parking overnight, it’s a great way to get some extra mileage while you sleep. Additionally, many hotels offer free charging services to their guests, which can help you save money on your trip.
These can be found on the hotel’s page on PlugShare or on the hotel’s website. That being said, I’ve found that many chargers may not be available, so I recommend calling the hotel ahead of time to make sure your charger is working.
Expand your charging options with Tesla adapters
If you don’t drive your Tesla on road trips, consider purchasing the Tesla NAACS to J1772 adapter. These will not work with Tesla Supercharger, but will work with Tesla Destination Charger.
Tesla Destination Chargers are Level 2 chargers commonly found in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls. So while it’s slower, the adapter gives you more options when traveling around the country and is great for long-term charging.
The Tesla to J1772 charging adapter enables J1772 electric vehicles to take advantage of Tesla charging stations, expanding access to more than 15,000 additional charging points across North America. Fast charging capability of up to 80 amps and 250 V significantly reduces charging time compared to Level 1 chargers. Compact, lightweight design and anti-drop locking feature ensure ease of use and safety. Compatibility with all J1772 BEVs and PHEVs increases versatility and allows for seamless integration with a variety of Tesla charging options.
Finally, you can effectively extend the range of your EV. There are many ways to do this, but some good ways to extend your car’s battery life include driving without the air conditioning on, using regenerative braking when it’s safe to do so, and avoiding sudden acceleration.
Renting an EV is different from renting a traditional gas car. However, it’s not difficult as long as you know how to plan your route and charging locations and are familiar with charging networks. Plus, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint while experiencing new places.
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