CAR rental giant Hertz is planning big for car sharing.
Car sharing is typified in the UK by car clubs such as the Zipcar.
However, with Hertz 24/7, Hertz plans to combine the car sharing experience with its car rental might.
Hertz 24/7, says the company, is a new rental service available any time of the day or night.
It means businesses can rent a car near their home or work any time they need it on an hourly, weekly, or monthly basis.
It’s a hybrid version of the current Hertz car sharing offering, Hertz on Demand.
“Technology-enhanced vehicles will be available close to where customers live or work, making it easier than ever to reserve and quickly pick-up a rental vehicle at the customer’s convenience,” commented chairman and chief executive Mark P. Frissora.
“Customers will be able to rent a much wider variety of vehicles at any hour – not just weekdays 9 to 5 when a rental location is open. 24/7 service is a key part of our commitment to create the fastest, easiest and most valued rental experiences in the business.”
To use the facility, businesses will need to join Hertz 24/7 – which is free – to receive a 24/7 key fob that unlocks the vehicle. Reservations can then be made by computer or by smartphone app.
Hertz says its 24/7 service is now available in 1800 locations in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain and Australia.
However, in the UK 24/7 is only currently available in London, Greater London and Oxford.
SMEs who like the sound of 24/7 for flexible access to business cars can take advantage of Hertz 24/7 Business. It offers small businesses in-vehicle customer care; self-service hire with no paper work; cleaning of vehicles and duty of care safety checks; and flexible fuel and insurance options.
“Hertz 24/7 Business is flexible, convenient and cost effective – we believe it can save 25% on existing pool fleet costs,” added Mark P. Frissora.
Typical vehicles on Hertz 24/7
- Mitsubishi i-MiEV – electric car
- Fiat 500
- Ford Focus
- Alfa Romeo MiTo
- Ford Transit LWB HiTop
- Ford Fiesta
- Nissan Leaf – electric car