One of the largest rental companies in Australia, Sixt, has experienced significant year-on-year growth in its electric vehicle (EV) fleet. The company, owned by motoring group NRMA, reported a 647% increase in the EV fleet during the financial year compared to the previous year. This growth comes after Sixt announced a partnership with BYD to supply 100,000 “new energy vehicles” (NEV) through to 2028.
The current EV fleet consists of six models: the BYD Atto 3, Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq EV, Hyundai Kona EV, and BMW ix3. The addition of these vehicles has made EV rentals more affordable for drivers, with daily rates cheaper than those for internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
To support the growing fleet, Sixt has partnered with EVSE to install level 2 AC chargers across its 17 sites. Additionally, some locations are equipped with 60 kW DC chargers for quick turnarounds during busy rental periods.
With the goal of having 50% of its corporate fleet be EVs by 2027, Sixt plans to double its current fleet size in the next 12 months. The company aims to encourage more Australians to experience driving an EV and reduce fleet emissions.
Rental companies like Sixt have the opportunity to provide affordable EV experiences to customers. With rental rates similar to or lower than ICE cars, renting an EV eliminates the need for frequent visits to petrol stations. Furthermore, as rental cars typically travel longer distances than private cars, expanding EV rental fleets can contribute to reducing emissions.
The growing availability of EV rentals across Australia is expected to encourage more travelers to choose EVs for their next trips. Once they experience driving an EV, it is an experience that few will forget.
Riz Akhtar, the founder of carloop and a mechanical engineer, believes in the potential of EVs to reduce transport emissions in Australia. He drives a red Tesla Model 3 and is passionate about promoting EVs and providing data and insights about the Australian EV market.
Australian EV fleet at Sixt grows as drivers take advantage of low rates and complimentary charging
In recent years, the global automotive industry has witnessed a significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) due to their environmental benefits and advancements in technology. Australia, in particular, has seen a growing number of EVs on its roads, largely attributed to the efforts of car rental companies like Sixt. With their low rates and complimentary charging infrastructure, Sixt has successfully attracted a larger customer base looking to experience the electric revolution.
One of the main reasons behind this surge in electric vehicle usage is the declining cost of EVs in Australia. Over the past decade, there has been a notable reduction in the upfront purchase price of electric cars, making them more affordable and accessible to the general public. By offering competitive rates, Sixt has further incentivized potential drivers to experience the perks of electric mobility.
Additionally, one of the major concerns surrounding EV adoption has been access to charging infrastructure. Recognizing this issue, Sixt has taken a proactive approach by providing complimentary charging facilities to its customers. By partnering with various charging station networks and strategically locating them at key points across the country, Sixt has eliminated the hassle of locating a charging point, thereby addressing one of the main barriers to EV adoption.
Complimentary charging not only provides convenience, but it also alleviates range anxiety, which is a common hesitation for potential EV drivers. By offering the peace of mind that customers can easily charge their EVs, Sixt is helping to dispel concerns about being stranded with a depleted battery.
Furthermore, the increased awareness and focus on sustainability have also played a vital role in the rise of EV adoption. Australians, like many others around the world, are becoming more environmentally conscious and are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. The transition to electric vehicles aligns perfectly with this desire, as EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, resulting in cleaner and greener transportation. Sixt’s commitment to expanding its EV fleet has enabled individuals to contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying the benefits of electric mobility.
In addition to individual users, businesses are also recognizing the advantages of EVs. Several companies in Australia have embraced the corporate social responsibility aspect of EV adoption and have started incorporating electric vehicles into their fleet. The low rates and comprehensive charging infrastructure provided by Sixt make it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint, whilst also benefiting from cost savings in the long run.
Despite the growing popularity of EVs, there is still room for improvement and expansion in the Australian market. Infrastructure development, including the installation of more charging stations, remains a priority to ensure a smooth transition from conventional vehicles to EVs. Governments and private entities need to collaborate to create a robust charging network that covers major highways, urban areas, and regional towns.
In conclusion, the growing Australian EV fleet at Sixt is a testament to the increasing interest and demand for electric vehicles in the country. By offering low rates and complimentary charging, Sixt has successfully attracted drivers who are eager to experience the advantages of electric mobility. As EV technology continues to evolve, and the environmental benefits become more apparent, it is expected that the Australian EV market will continue to expand, enabling a cleaner and greener future for all.