Imagine the serenity of cruising down the Great Ocean Road — the sun on your face, the wind in your hair, and only the gentlest of hums from your electric motor. Sounds idyllic, right? With the rising popularity of electric vehicles, this dream is becoming a reality for many. And for those hesitant to jump into the deep end of ownership, electric car rental lets you dip your toes in, whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast, a curious first-timer or someone seriously considering a purchase.
Electric car rental in Australia is a fantastic way to travel and see new destinations, but it’s different from driving a traditional petrol car. These six tips will help you navigate the world of EV rentals and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
1. Plan your trip and charging stops
Before you hit the road, map out your route and identify charging stations along the way. Luckily, a plethora of apps offer comprehensive station maps, making it easy to locate charging points. Consider factors like charging speeds and connector types when choosing your stops.
2. Familiarise yourself with your EV model
Every EV has its unique personality and features. Take some time to get acquainted with the specific model you’re renting. Is it a compact city car or a spacious SUV? What are the different driving modes? How do you activate the infotainment system?
Don’t hesitate to ask the rental company for tutorials or guides on operating the EV model you’ve chosen. Understanding the car’s functionalities will enhance your driving experience and help you make the most of its features.
3. Maximise regenerative braking
One of the coolest things about EVs is regenerative braking. In simple terms, when you ease off the accelerator or brake, the electric motor helps slow the car down and, in the process, captures energy and sends it back to the battery. This means you can actually extend your driving range by utilising this feature effectively.
For example, when coasting downhill or approaching a red light, anticipate the stop and gradually ease off the accelerator to maximise energy recapture. It might feel a bit different at first, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it and enjoy the added benefit of a smoother, more efficient ride.
4. Pack light and optimise efficiency
Just like a conventional car, the weight you carry in your EV can affect its efficiency and range. While EVs are incredibly powerful, packing excessively can put extra strain on the battery and reduce the distance you can travel on a single charge. Before your trip, take some time to plan your packing. Do you really need that extra pair of shoes? Or that bulky hair dryer? Maybe those camping chairs can stay home this time.
5. Understand charging etiquette
As the EV community grows, it’s important to be mindful of charging etiquette. When using public charging stations, remember that others also rely on these resources to power their vehicles. The most important thing to remember is to be considerate of charging times. Once your EV is sufficiently charged, promptly move your car to allow others to access the station.
6. Prepare for unexpected situations
While EVs are generally very reliable, it’s always wise to be prepared for unexpected situations, just like you would with any rental car.
- Familiarise yourself with the EV’s roadside assistance program. Know how to contact them in case of a flat tyre, dead battery or other issues.
- Carry a charging cable. While most electric car rentals come with one, it’s a good idea to have a backup, especially if you plan on venturing off the beaten path.
- Proper tire inflation can significantly impact your EV’s range.
- Don’t push the battery to its absolute limit. It’s better to stop and charge with a comfortable buffer than to risk getting stranded.
Ready to hit the road, electric style?
Electric car rental in Australia is your gateway to a greener, more exhilarating driving experience. With these tips in your toolkit, you’re ready to embrace the open road and discover the unique joys of EV travel.
Wherever your adventure takes you in the land down under, evee has you covered. As the first-ever peer-to-peer electric car rental in Australia, we’ll help you find the perfect model in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, as well as popular destinations like the Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide and Tasmania.
With evee, you’ll receive precisely the car you booked, with no surprises or last-minute swaps. Our convenient service makes EV rental easier than ever. Contact our team and learn more about evee today.
