Avis adds 100 EVs

Avis New Zealand has added nearly 100 EVs to its fleet with more planned in the next two years.

It aims to become New Zealand’s largest electric car rental fleet as a result.

Avis customers will be able to choose from the latest Tesla Model 3, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or the Hyundai Kona in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

“We have big plans to continue down the EV path,” says Avis New Zealand general manager Lee Marshall.

“We’re looking at expanding our electric fleet over the next 12-24 months.”

Marshall says Avis has been very conscious of New Zealand’s goal to move to a more sustainable economy and its desire to lower carbon emissions.

“Our investment in e-mobility and new charging infrastructure at three airport locations ensures we’re not only in the best position to capture Kiwis’ growing interest in greener transport solutions, but also offers them greater choice.”

More Avis EV charging stations are planned at other airport locations around the country soon, Marshall adds.

Avis New Zealand’s EV strategy during the past two years has also focussed on preparing for the re-start of international travel to ensure tourists have more sustainable options to choose from when they return.

With pricing similar to a comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, Marshall says trialling one of the new EVs is a viable option.

The three EV models in the fleet can drive up to 430km on a single charge, and people can even rent one to try before buying.

“To help support our customers once they’ve rented an EV from us, we’ve created two QR codes with quick start guides,” says Marshall.

“They give easy to understand step-by-step instructions about charging, where to charge, how long it takes to charge and how far a charge lasts.

“We also have links to the ChargeNet and PlugShare apps for customers to find the closest charging station to avoid any concerns about range anxiety during trips.”