Electric car hire in London: Everything you need to know

Why choose electric car hire in London?

Electric car hire in London is becoming the preferred choice for both locals and visitors. With rising fuel costs, strict emission rules and an expanding charging network, renting an electric vehicle offers a smarter, cleaner and more cost-effective way to get around the capital. Here are some of the benefits that you avail yourself of hiring these types of vehicles:

• Avoid London’s emissions and congestion charges

  One of the biggest advantages of hiring an electric car in London is significant savings on city charges. Fully EVs are exempt from the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge and the Congestion Charge, helping drivers avoid daily fees that quickly add up when using petrol or diesel cars.

• Lower running costs compared to petrol and diesel cars

  EVs cost less to run. Charging them is generally cheaper than refuelling with petrol or diesel, especially when using off-peak or public charging points. This means you avail low energy costs per mile.

• Ideal for London’s stop-start traffic

  London traffic involves frequent stops, short journeys and slow-moving roads, and this is where electric vehicles excel. Regenerative braking helps recharge the battery while driving, making these cars particularly efficient for city use.

• A quieter and smoother driving experience

  EVs offer instant acceleration and a smooth ride, perfect for navigating London’s busy streets. It is an easy way to travel responsibly while supporting the city’s push toward cleaner transport and a more sustainable future.

How much does electric car hire cost in London?

The electric London car hire price varies depending on factors like car type, duration, supplier and rental duration. On average, you can expect competitive prices that are often comparable to petrol or diesel cars once you factor in fuel savings and charge exemptions.

Electric car hire deals in London

• One-day car hire: If you need a vehicle only for a day, London has plenty of electric car rental options. These are ideal for short trips, airport transfers or sightseeing. Note that although companies offer hourly rentals, the charges for that shall remain on 24-hour basis. To learn all the related information, read the terms and conditions of your preferred supplier.
• Weekly car hire: These deals are perfect for visitors who are in the city for vacation or tours. These have lower daily rates compared to one-day rentals and often more perks, such as unlimited mileage.
• Long-term electric car rental: For those planning extended stays, monthly electric London car hire offers the best value. These deals are best for travellers who need flexibility without the commitment of buying a new vehicle. Such rentals often include comprehensive support, such as maintenance and access to a growing network of charging stations across the city.

Where to charge electric car in London easily?

Charging an electric car in London is now straightforward, thanks to the city’s rapidly expanding EV charging network. Whether you are a local or visitor, there are several options to keep your vehicle’s battery topped up.

Public charging stations

London is home to thousands of public charging points, including rapid, fast and standard chargers. Popular locations include:

• Shopping centres and retail parks: Ideal for topping up while you shop.
• Supermarkets: Many offer low-cost EV charging for customers.
• Public car parks: Most council-run car parks provide charging bays.
• Street charging points: Convenient for residents or short-term parking in busy areas.

Mobile Apps

To find chargers quickly, you can use apps such as Zap-Map, PlugShare or the official Transport for London (TfL) EV map. These will help you:

• Nearest charging station
• Check real-time availability
• Compare charging speeds and prices

Where to park electric car in London?

Parking an electric car in London has become simpler as the city promotes cleaner transport. Many areas now offer dedicated spaces for EVs, often with added benefits.

• Dedicated EV parking bays

  Most councils provide electric vehicle bays in residential areas, shopping centres and business districts. These bays are often closer to entrances and equipped with charging points which will save your time.

• Street parking and residential options

  Some London boroughs allow electric cars to park for free or at reduced rates in on-street bays. Applications like Parkopedia or JustPark can help you locate EV parking spots along with charging access.

• Multi-storey and private car parks

  Many multi-storey and private car parks now reserve bays for electric vehicles including fast charging stations. This is especially convenient for tourists or business travellers who need safe and reliable parking.

Your top questions about London electric car hire

• Is electric car hire in London suitable for first-time EV drivers?

  Yes, most car rental providers offer user-friendly electric vehicles with simple controls and clear charging guidance. Many cars also include built-in navigation that shows nearby charging points.

• How far can an electric hire car travel on a full charge?

  This depends on the model, but most electric cars available for hire in London offer a range of 150–300 miles on a full charge, which is more than sufficient for city driving and nearby trips.

• What happens if the battery runs low during my trip?

  Most EVs provide real-time battery monitoring and alerts. With London’s dense charging network and mobile apps to locate stations, finding a spot nearby is usually easy.

• How long does it take to charge an electric rental car?

  Charging time varies by charger type. Rapid chargers can provide up to 80% charge in 30-40 minutes, while standard chargers can take hours. Many drivers combine charging with shopping or parking to save time.