Car rental for electric vehicles: how it works, how much it costs, and why it's worth it today

In recent years, electric mobility has stopped being a utopia for a few visionaries and has become a concrete choice for those seeking practicality, savings, and sustainability. But what happens if you don't want to buy an electric car, but simply try it out or use it for a limited time? Here comes the rental of electric cars, an increasingly widespread solution that combines freedom of movement and attention to the environment. In this article, we guide you to discover electric rental: updated data for 2025, comparisons, practical tips, and advantages not to miss.

What is electric car rental

Electric car rental is a service that allows you to use an electric vehicle for a specified period of time without having to purchase it. Depending on your needs, you can choose from:

• Short-term rental: from a few hours up to a few days, ideal for vacations, tests, or occasional needs.

• Medium-term rental: from 30 to 180 days, useful for temporary workers or seasonal needs.

• Long-term rental: from 12 to 60 months, often chosen by those who want a always new car, without purchase constraints.

According to data from the National Association of Car Rental and Automotive Services (ANIASA), over 30% of new registrations of electric vehicles in 2024 occurred through rental schemes.

The benefits of electric car rental

Choosing an electric car for rental offers numerous advantages, both economic and practical:

• Zero worries: road tax, RCA insurance, roadside assistance, and check-ups are included.

• Simplified charging: many offers include a certain number of free kWh or access to public charging networks.

• Flexibility: it is possible to change vehicles at the end of the contract or adapt the duration to your needs.

• Access to ZTL and free parking in many Italian cities.

• Environmental and image benefits, especially for companies aiming for effective CSR.

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How much does it cost to rent an electric car

Costs vary significantly based on the model, duration, and kilometers included. Here’s an indicative overview based on offers from operators like Leasys, Arval, and ALD Automotive:

• Electric city cars (e.g. Fiat 500e, Peugeot e-208): from 250 to 450 euros/month.

• Compact sedans (e.g. Renault Megane E-Tech, MG4 Electric): between 400 and 600 euros/month.

• Premium models (e.g. Tesla Model 3, Audi Q4 e-tron): from 650 to over 1,000 euros/month.

The price may include:

• Mileage (from 10,000 to 40,000 km/year)

• Comprehensive insurance (Kasko, theft, and fire)

• Charging or wallbox included

• Regular and extraordinary maintenance

A study published by Politecnico di Milano - Energy & Strategy Group shows how the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) of a rented electric car is often more favorable than that of a combustion car, already after 2-3 years.

Best electric cars available for rent

The most requested electric cars for rental in 2025 combine autonomy, connectivity, and ease of charging. Here are some of the most interesting:

• Fiat 500e: perfect for the city, with a real range of about 250 km.

• Peugeot e-208: stylish and versatile, also ideal for extra-urban journeys.

• MG4 Electric: unbeatable quality/price ratio.

• Renault Megane E-Tech: connected, technological, and spacious.

• Tesla Model 3: the electric sedan par excellence, with autonomous driving and over 500 km of range.

• Volkswagen ID.3: perfect balance between size, range, and price.

Updated data can be consulted in the official catalogs of manufacturers and in online rental platforms.

Where to rent an electric car

Options abound. Today, it is possible to access rental through:

• Specialized operators like Leasys, Arval, ALD Automotive, SIFÀ.

• Car manufacturers offering dedicated packages.

• Car sharing apps for short and flexible rentals.

• Local dealerships with customized offers for individuals and professionals.

Electric car rental for companies and fleets

Companies looking to renew their fleet can reap huge benefits from renting electric vehicles:

• Advantageous tax deductions, with deductions up to 100% for zero-emission cars in business use.

• Reduction of emissions and improvement of corporate image.

• Remote monitoring with fleet management platforms like Geotab, Viasat, or Octo.

• Charging manageable on-site with corporate charging stations supported by integrated energy plans.

Electric car rental for vacations or weekends

More and more Italians are choosing electric rental even for short periods:

• Weekend getaways

• Sustainable travels in artistic cities

• Testing some models before purchasing

Tip: before departing, plan the route and check for charging stations along the way. With apps like NextCharge, Plenitude+Be Charge, or Google Maps, the journey will be worry-free. 

Pros and cons of electric rental

Pros

• No initial investment

• Sustainable mobility

• Services included in the fee

• Possibility to change models every few years

Cons

• Range to assess based on usage

• Need for easy access to charging infrastructure

• Penalties in case of early withdrawal or damages

FAQ

What is the best time to rent an electric car?

The best offers are often found at the beginning of the year or during the summer months when car manufacturers launch promotional campaigns.

Is charging included in the rental fee?

It depends on the contract. Some include a certain number of monthly kWh or a card for public charging.

Is it more convenient to rent or buy an electric car?

In the short to medium term, renting is often more convenient, especially for those who desire flexibility and access to always updated models.

The rental of electric cars today represents a modern, intelligent, and accessible solution for moving freely and sustainably. Whether you are a curious individual or a future-oriented company, this approach offers concrete and flexible advantages. 

With the expansion of charging infrastructure, decreasing costs, and the support of public incentives, the future is increasingly electric.