EV Rental For Business
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Renting an EV
EV Rental Essentials
SIMPLE STEPS TO CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT STRESS-FREE
Renting an electric vehicle with Europcar is simple and rewarding – but there are a few important steps to know at pick-up and return. Here’s how to make the process as smooth as possible.
AT PICK-UP
1. BRING YOUR DOCUMENTS
Remember to bring your driving licence, DVLA sharecode, payment card, and valid photo ID. These must match the details provided when you booked.
2. KNOW THE CHARGE POLICY
We aim to supply all electric vehicles with around 80% charge, with a guaranteed minimum of 50%. The exact charge level will be recorded at handover and again when you return the vehicle for full transparency.
3. INSPECT AND REPORT ANY DAMAGE
Before you drive away, check the car for any visible damage – inside or out. If you spot anything not already noted, please speak to our team or take clear photos for your records.
4. CHARGING CABLE CHECK
All Europcar EVs come with a Type 2 charging cable that you’ll find in the boot. These may be loose, or provided in a case. These are your responsibility during the rental and must be returned in good condition to avoid any additional charges.
5. EV HANDOVER
If you’re unfamiliar with electric vehicles, our team will show you how to start the car, use the charging cable, and find charge points. Don’t hesitate to ask – we’re here to help.
6. GET COMFORTABLE
Before you leave the forecourt, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the vehicle. Electric cars can feel different from traditional petrol or diesel models – especially when it comes to starting the engine, regenerative braking, or silent acceleration.
Adjust your seat, mirrors and climate controls, and make sure you’re confident with the gear selector, dashboard display and touchscreen. If you’re unsure about anything, our station team is here to help.
Want a deeper dive into driving an EV? Read our quick guide here.
AT DROP-OFF
7. UNDERSTAND THE RETURN CHARGE POLICY
We know charging takes longer than refuelling – so we only ask that you return the vehicle with at least 20% battery. There’s no need to fully recharge before drop-off.
8. DO A QUICK VEHICLE PAT-DOWN
Before you hand back the keys, take a moment to check the vehicle for any personal belongings. Look under seats, in door pockets, gloveboxes and the boot – it’s easy for sunglasses, wallets, phones or charging cables to slip out of sight.
A quick sweep now could save the hassle of trying to recover something later.
9. CHECK FOR DAMAGE
Before returning your EV, please do a quick walkaround to spot any new damage. We understand everyday use can leave minor marks – small scratches, light scuffing, or interior soiling may fall under normal wear and tear and won’t be charged.
As a general rule of thumb, scratches or dents under 2cm to the paintwork, body, wheels, or tyres, and chips under 1cm to windscreens, windows, or light units are considered normal wear and tear.
10. ALLOW A FEW MINUTES FOR INSPECTION
Drop-off is usually quick, but allowing a little extra time helps ensure everything is closed off correctly – especially if there are any questions or checks to complete.
Stay charged wherever you go
Europcar recommends Zapmap to search for EV charge points and plan your EV journeys
With the widest choice of charging options in the UK, Zapmap gives you access to an inspiring community of EV drivers – and provides peace of mind when out and about in your EV.
Download the app
