High fuel prices: Is renting an EV a better alternative in the USA?

Renting a car has always been an important element of the USA’s travel culture. But with fuel prices increasing, many Americans and international travelers are opting for EVs (electric cars) to travel. And this is not just for commuting short distances; even for long trips, EVs are being considered as one of the options that people can rely on.

Many studies have even stated that by 2031 the market size for EV car rentals will grow exponentially. But is choosing an EV really the right choice? Let’s figure it out.

How can high fuel prices increase overall budget?

When planning a road trip or even a small intercity tour, fuel prices are always the biggest expense. In the USA, where you need to cover several miles to travel from destination A to B, fuel costs add up quickly. Apart from this, other factors that could increase the overall expenditure on fuel are:

• Vehicle fuel efficiency: An efficient car will require fewer trips to the gas station and cover more miles. If the opposite is happening, your fuel cost will rise.
• Gasoline prices: Global market conditions drive fuel prices. If the prices are high, you will have to bear higher costs.
• State-wise costs: Due to different excise taxes, fuel policies, and supply costs, each state has different fuel prices. As you travel, you have to pay varying amounts for fuel, which could make allocating a budget difficult and also lead to paying more than you expected.
• Driving conditions: Traffic friction, extra weight, or resistance- all of this could lead to an increase in fuel consumption.

How can EVs help you save?

Fuel prices are on the rise, which can make traveling expensive. One of the alternatives to tackle this situation is choosing to rent an EV (electric vehicle) over traditional ones. Here’s why?

Requires less maintenance

Compared to traditional vehicles, EVs require less maintenance. Unlike traditional vehicles, which may require a little tuning up, oil changes, and frequent stops at the fuel station, the same does not happen with EVs.

As EVs do not have spark plugs, fuel filters, exhaust systems, or use engine oil, you are less likely to encounter an issue on a long getaway.

Fewer energy costs

Compared to petrol or diesel, electricity costs much less per mile.

For instance, for every mile, the standard amount of fuel you will burn is around 0.040 gallons, which will cost you approximately $0.163. At the same time, driving an electric car for a mile requires 0.3 to 0.35 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy, which costs approximately 5.5¢ to 14.7¢. If put into proper calculation, you will be saving thousands on a long trip with EVs.

Some places offer level 2 charging for free

The level 2 method of charging means using a 240-volt alternating current (AC) power source to charge an EV. Some hotels, motels, shopping malls, or public spaces offer this level of charging for free. You can use apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub to locate these spots.

Overnight charging

Many electric utility companies offer special pricing according to what time of day you are using the electricity. Late at night and early in the morning (usually between 10 pm and 6 am), the demand becomes significantly low, whereas the output from power plants remains consistent.

During these “off-peak” hours, the utility charge is much lower per kilowatt-hour. While on a trip, wherever you are planning to stay, ask about the off-peak rates and charge your EV rental overnight.

Top 8 EV-friendly cities in the USA

8 USA cities that are EV-friendly.

The popularity of renting an EV has increased over the years. Let’s find out the most popular cities in the USA where renting an EV will be the best choice:

Asheville, North Carolina

• Number of public charging stations: 433
• DC fast chargers: 42
• EV-friendly accommodations: DoubleTree by Hilton, Element by Marriott, Hampton Inn & Suites

Los Angeles, California

• Number of public chargers: 10,961
• DC fast chargers: 492
• EV-friendly accommodations: The Westin Bonaventure Hotel, Suites and Sunset Marquis

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

• Number of public chargers: 247
• DC fast charging: 26
• EV-friendly accommodations: Residence Inn by Marriott, The Bear's Den.

Austin, Texas

• Number of public chargers: 2311
• DC fast charging: 320
• EV-friendly accommodations: Aloft Austin, Hotel Saint Cecilia, The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel

Baltimore Metropolitan area, Maryland

• Number of public chargers: 2,893
• DC fast charging: 500
• EV-friendly accommodations: Sagamore Pendry, Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor, Marriott Owings Mills Metro Centre

Chicago, Illinois

• Number of public chargers: 3,300
• DC fast charging: 1300
• EV-friendly accommodations: AC Hotel Chicago Downtown, Hilton Chicago Magnificent Mile Suites, The Ritz-Carlton

San Francisco, California

• Number of public chargers: 1200
• DC fast charging: 150
• EV-friendly accommodations: InterContinental San Francisco & Hilton San Francisco Financial District

Atlanta, GA

• Number of public chargers: 769
• DC fast charging: 180
• EV-friendly accommodations: Element Atlanta Midtown, Aloft Atlanta Downtown, and Hyatt Regency Atlanta

Related posts: Thinking of taking a road trip in an EV rental? Here are some tips you need to consider.

Should you rent an electric vehicle in the USA?

Yes, renting an electric vehicle is no doubt an excellent option, especially when you are going on long trips. When fuel prices are soaring, EVs help minimize travel expenses. They require low routine maintenance, and many accommodations even provide free charging facilities. Just make sure to plan your journey wisely and save details of all the charging facilities en route.

FAQs

• Can I charge my EVs at hotels or motels in the USA?

  Yes, you can. There are plenty of hotels, motels, national parks, and public areas in the US where you can charge your EVs.

• Is it really more cost-effective to rent an EV than a traditional car?

  Yes, renting an EV is cost-effective in comparison to traditional cars. The cost of charging an EV and the maintenance costs are lower than those of fuel-powered cars. This allows you to travel long distances without paying a lot.

• Can a traveler from abroad rent an electric vehicle in the USA?

  Any person who is a citizen or traveling from abroad can rent an electric car in the USA. You are just required to present an IDP (International Driving Permit), an original driver's license, official ID proof, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. The driver should also be within the required age limit specified by the rental supplier.

• How long does it take to charge an EV?

  It depends on the car model, battery size, battery level, and charger type. Generally, people opt for DC chargers to get faster charging speeds.