Hertz offers car renters an electric option

Two i-MiEVs are now available in London to Hertz members. Over the course of the year, Hertz plans to increase the number of i-MiEVs around the UK and make them available to corporate and university fleets. The partnership is part of Hertz’s 'Global Electric Vehicle Programme’, which began in December 2010.

"Our partnership with Mitsubishi Motors in the UK to provide i-MiEV cars to our Connect by Hertz members and Hertz customers in the UK is a vital part of our global Electric Vehicle and sustainability initiatives," said Michel Taride, Hertz International president. "We are excited that from today, our customers can experience the joy of 100 per cent electric driving with the i-MiEV’s, which offer surprising power and a smooth, quiet ride."

Charging points
Hertz has 16 charging stations around London, Heathrow and London City airports. Drivers can find stations in Russell Square, Marble Arch, Old Kent Road and Uxbridge. The cars are equipped with NeverLost GPS systems, which will inform the drivers about where the charging points are and whether they are available.

As the Government adds more public charging stations around London, Hertz customers will be able to use these as well. The charging stations are to be completed by 2013 under the Mayor’s plan to make London the electric vehicle capital of Europe.

i-MiEV
The i-MiEV is the first mass-produced fully electric vehicle, and can drive over 90 miles on a single charge. With a quick charging unit, the car can reach an 80 per cent charge in 30 minutes, and using a standard domestic plug, the car can reach a full charge overnight.

"The i-MiEV is a very important vehicle for us, making a statement to the global car industry – being the first mass-produced, zero emission full electric vehicle ever," said Lance Bradley, Mitsubishi Motors managing director.

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