While the rising prices of petrol and diesel have been baffling the Indians, the alternative option of electricity-driven vehicles have not been able to grab much of the attention of the Indians either. But off late, a plan has been hatched to make the customers realize the affordability and eco-friendliness of such vehicles by allowing them hire and drive the latter.
A wing of the $16.2 billion Mahindra Group, and the manufacturer of 4-seater E2O electric small car, the Mahindra Reva, has recently tied up with Carzonrent, the country’s largest cab company, to offer electric cars on rent in the three of the metropolitan cities, viz. Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. Being at a very initial stage, only five electric cars would be available on rent in each of these three cities. The cars can be booked over the phone like the usual cab services, or one can also opt for online booking.
Talking about the efficacy of this plan, the CEO of the Mahindra Reva Electric Vehicles, Chetan Maine said: “A 10-minute test drive is not sufficient for customers to experience the convenience and benefits of an electric car. Hence, this new association will allow customers to use the e2o for a few hours or days and get an insight into this new and exciting next-generation, hassle-free mobility solution.”
The E2O is allowed only for self-drive, and the customers can leave the car at a chosen place on payment of an additional charge. The basic hourly charges would be Rs.100/hour; whereas the customers can have the car for an entire day for Rs. 800.
Carzonrent is also up with building as many as 100 charging stations in each of the three cities in order to supply power recharge for the customers. However, a driving license, an identity proof, and credit card are necessary for availing the service.
