Hybrid rental car options in Los Angeles
As you may have read in the recent Los Angeles Times article “Renting a car? Consider hybrid and other eco-friendly options,” car-rental companies from the large-scale mainstream to the smaller-scale independents have hopped aboard the hybrid train. As writer Terry Gardner reported, however, going green on the roadways doesn’t necessarily save you any green at the rental desk.
Renting a hybrid vehicle does, however, save you bills at the pump, especially if you’re looking to log serious highway miles in true late-summer-road-trip fashion. Where to go for the best price and quality? The following are among your options. I tested each agency’s rates for a Toyota Prius, using Sept. 11-17, 2008, as my sample week; all estimated rates include tax.
EV Rental Cars: Founded in 1998, this is the first company in the U.S. devoted to hybrid-electric vehicles. L.A.-based, they have branches at LAX as well as airports in Orange County, San Diego, San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Phoenix and Las Vegas.
Fleet: Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Toyota Highlander
Rates: $381.37 weekly for a Toyota Prius
Contact: (877) EV-RENTAL
Fox Rent a Car: Though this small international chain’s fleet consists of mostly standard offerings, its LAX location offers a couple of hybrid models.
Fleet: Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid
Rates: $381.87 weekly for a Toyota Prius
Contact: (800) 225-4369
Simply Hybrid: What I like about this agency is its offer of free delivery to many locations in the L.A. region (including LAX), and the fact that its vehicles are top of the line, with upscale features such as leather interiors, Bluetooth connectivity and more. A warning, though: Their prices reflect this, but if you’re not worried about that, note that you can also request a professional chauffeur — at an extra charge, of course.
Fleet: 14 hybrid models, from mid-size to SUV
Rates: $649 weekly for a Toyota Prius
Contact: (888) 359-0055
- Susan Derby, Special to the Los Angeles Times
[Photo: Toyota]
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August 18th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
First, look for the rental car company that will suit your trip the best. Major rental companies are your best choice for short trips, plus they usually come with support services such as roadside assistance for when you come upon an accident. When it’s a long trip however, go with the local rental businesses, since they’re rates are usually cheaper. Be warned though, they might not have extra support services that big rental companies have.
Second, think of what type of vehicle suits your needs the best. If you’re traveling alone, a compact or a midsized car is just what you need. If it’s a big trip however and you’re taking the entire family with all your kids and lots of extra baggage, opt for a large sedan or an SUV. Whichever the case, if you’re looking to save money on gas expenses and rental rates, ask for the smallest and cheapest available model.
Having the wrong car on the road may cause a lot of complications. Be aware of the car’s compatibility with the terrain you’re going to come across with. Also take note of the kind of transmission the car has, manual or automatic, at which case; go with the one that is easier for you. Don’t forget to ask the company if they offer any additions to the car such as a GPS system or car seats for the baby, these may come in handy, long trip or not.
Before confirming your reservation, read the terms and conditions carefully. Ask about the limitations, additional rates, and if there are penalties for certain situations that might occur during your trip. For liability purposes this is VERY important. Always get a reference number to your booking reservation.