With their short-term business in freefall because of the slump in the number of people passing through airports, two car hire firms have announced new long-term options for companies and individuals.
Europcar’s B2B flexible rental Long-Term Solutions allows customers to rent a range of cars and vans, for a minimum period of one month with the ability to stop at any time. Maintenance is included in the rate and the monthly price is fixed, so that customers can control their expenses.
Rates in UK central city locations start at £335 per month for a Fiat 500 or similar with an 840 mileage limit.
Lluis Figueras, Europcar’s professional service line group director, said: "For the great majority of companies, the last few months have been extremely difficult. They now need the greatest flexibility to adapt to a still uncertain future. We have therefore focused on developing a range of highly flexible, bespoke long-term rental solutions.
"These solutions cover both cars and light commercial vehicles, which can help companies adapt quickly and effectively to demand. We have added extra hygiene measures to deal with the spread of Covid-19, to serve businesses and professionals with the serenity and safety they require.”
The service is available in France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Spain, Portugal and the UK, with more countries to come in the coming months.
Meanwhile, Hertz has expanded its My Car monthly subscription plans throughout the US after launching in Austin and Atlanta last year.
The plans – priced at US$599 for economy, compact and mid-size sedans, US$999 for full-size sedans, small SUVs and trucks and US$1,399 for luxury sedans, regular SUVs and large trucks – include maintenance, liability protection and premium roadside assistance.
Laura Smith, Hertz executive vice president of global marketing and customer experience said, "Since launching in Austin and Atlanta last year, we've seen growth in the programme locally and greater interest in other markets.
"Hertz My Car subscribers told us they like the flexibility of the programme and the fact they can swap vehicles twice per month at no additional cost. They also said they wanted to pick up and return at other locations, which helped support our decision to expand across the country.”