Kia Niro joins growing Europcar electric fleet

Europcar has bolstered its fully electric fleet with the zero-emission Kia Niro, which is now available to hire across the UK.

As part of the company’s ambitions to offer a wide range of net zero vehicle options, the Niro joins a fleet of Tesla Model 3s, Mercedes-Benz EQ models, MG4s, Jeep Avengers and the Skoda Enyaq.

Tom Middleditch, head of electric mobility at Europcar, said: “Having the Kia Niro EV on our fleet is a great fit for many of our customers who want to experience zero emission motoring in real-world conditions.

“Our own research has shown that there is still some uncertainty among drivers around electric motoring, despite a growing awareness that zero emission journeys are the way forward.”

In its latest EV Barriers research, almost two-thirds (64%) of drivers said that purchase cost and maintenance is the biggest barrier stopping them from switching to an electric vehicle (EV), followed by 46% being uncertain about lack of charging infrastructure.

“The good news is that rental provides easy access to electric motoring for private motorists and businesses in a low-commitment way,” continued Middleditch.

“An EV can be rented when it’s needed, for just a few days or weeks, providing the ideal opportunity to learn how to optimise electric performance.

The Kia Niro EV has an official range of up to 285 miles and a 72kW charging speed that can take it from 10–80% charge in 45 minutes.

Every electric vehicle Europcar provides at the start of rental has between 50% and 80% charge and the vehicle can be returned with 20% battery charge.