Electric cars are no longer just a Silicon Valley flex or a future dream. They’re here — quiet, sleek, surprisingly affordable, and increasingly available in rental fleets across Europe, Asia, and even emerging travel markets like Georgia. If you’re planning a trip and want to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing freedom, renting an EV or hybrid might just be the smartest move you can make.
But let’s be honest — figuring out where and how to rent an eco-friendly car, whether it’s a zippy Nissan Leaf or a solid hybrid Toyota Corolla, can feel more complicated than learning to drive stick in Rome. That’s why this guide breaks it all down: where to rent electric and hybrid cars in Europe and beyond, how charging works (without pulling your hair out), and what it all means for the planet — and your wallet.
Why Rent an Electric or Hybrid Car?
There are three good reasons to rent an EV or hybrid on your next trip — and only one of them is about saving polar bears.
First, you’ll save money on gas. With fuel prices in Europe reaching $6–$8 per gallon (or higher), a car that doesn’t guzzle fuel starts looking pretty sexy. Charging an EV at a public station often costs just a few euros — or is totally free in some regions.
Second, you reduce your environmental impact. Transportation accounts for nearly a quarter of global CO2 emissions. Even driving a hybrid significantly reduces emissions compared to a standard gas car. Going fully electric? You’re cutting tailpipe emissions to zero.
Third — and let’s not pretend this doesn’t matter — it’s fun. EVs accelerate faster, make almost no noise, and come with modern tech like regenerative braking and giant touchscreen dashboards. Think of it as driving the future.
Where to Rent Electric and Hybrid Cars in Europe
Europe has become a haven for eco-conscious travelers, and the rental market is catching up fast. Most major rental companies now offer some form of “green fleet” — you just need to know where to look.
Top Companies Offering EVs and Hybrids
- Hertz – Offers the “Green Collection” with hybrids and EVs like the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3 in select European cities.
- Europcar – Known for having one of the largest hybrid fleets in France and Germany.
- Sixt – Offers electric BMWs, Teslas, and VW ID.3/ID.4 in many Western European countries.
- Getmancar – A rising mobility company that started in Ukraine and Georgia, now expanding its eco-friendly fleet with hybrid and electric cars in Tbilisi, Batumi, and Chisinau. Their app lets you find and unlock cars on the go, and their newer models include Toyota Prius, Nissan Leaf, and Hyundai Kona Electric.
Pro tip: In cities like Amsterdam, Oslo, and Berlin, booking an EV with a major provider can be cheaper than renting a standard gas car — especially with free parking or city tax exemptions.
Charging Tips – It’s Not as Complicated as It Sounds
If the idea of charging an EV while on vacation gives you flashbacks to buffering YouTube videos in 2007, take a breath. Charging infrastructure in Europe (and many parts of Asia and the U.S.) has come a long way.
Here’s what you need to know:
Types of Charging Stations
- Level 2 (AC): Common in parking garages, hotels, and public lots. A full charge takes 4–8 hours.
- Level 3 / Fast Charging (DC): Found along highways and at large charging hubs. Can charge 80% in 30–45 minutes.
Most rental companies provide charging cards or app access (like Plugsurfing or ChargeMap) that work across multiple networks.
In Georgia, Getmancar has started listing charging-enabled stations in Tbilisi and Batumi. The charging infrastructure is still developing, but local brands like EVPoint and ElecTrip are expanding quickly. You’ll often find chargers at shopping malls, hotels, and business centers.
Hack for free charging: Some hotels offer complimentary EV charging to guests. Book your lodging accordingly — it saves time and money.
What to Expect When Driving an EV Abroad
If this is your first EV experience, don’t worry. The driving itself is usually smoother than a traditional car — and quieter. But there are a few quirks:
- Regenerative braking feels different. Lift your foot and the car slows down — useful on mountain roads.
- Battery range drops in cold weather or with heavy AC/heating. Plan charging stops accordingly.
- You don’t need to charge to 100%. Most EVs are happy between 20%–80%. Charging slows dramatically above 80% anyway.
And don’t forget: EVs are automatic by default — no clutch, no gear-grinding uphill.
EV Rentals in Georgia – The Emerging Market Worth Watching
Georgia may not yet be on the same EV level as Norway or Germany, but it’s moving fast — especially in cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and even Kutaisi.
Getmancar, one of the most innovative carsharing services in the region, offers hybrid and electric models for short- and long-term rental. Their Toyota Prius and Nissan Leaf are ideal for city driving, while their app-based system makes it incredibly easy to locate, unlock, and return the car.
Other local rental agencies — like City Rent, Caucasus Auto Rent, and Auto.ge — are starting to offer hybrid options, especially during the high season when fuel prices spike.
Charging infrastructure is growing, but it’s not yet universal. Your best bet is to:
- Rental a car in Tbilisi or Batumi, where most chargers are located.
- Ask the rental agency directly about charging access and cables.
- Plan routes ahead with tools like PlugShare or ElecTrip.ge.
Good to know: Electric cars in Georgia are often exempt from certain taxes or registration fees — a sign the government is backing the shift.
Greener Roads, Smarter Travel
Renting an electric or hybrid car isn’t just a nice gesture for the planet. It’s often cheaper, quieter, and more enjoyable — especially in Europe, where narrow streets, high gas prices, and short travel distances make EVs a perfect match.
Whether you’re gliding silently through the streets of Amsterdam in a Tesla Model 3, cruising the cliffs of Madeira in a Renault Zoe, or exploring Georgia’s capital in a Getmancar Prius — you’re part of a shift that goes beyond convenience. You’re choosing a cleaner, smarter way to travel.
And honestly? It just feels good.