Electric Vehicle (EV) Hire
Welcome to Electric Vehicle Hire
Driving an electric vehicle is simple and straightforward, but there are a few important differences from a diesel or petrol vehicle. This guide will help you get the most from your hire and avoid unnecessary charges.
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Before You Set Off
Your vehicle will be supplied with:
- Minimum 80% battery charge
- Charging cable(s) where applicable
- Breakdown cover
Please familiarise yourself with the vehicle controls before beginning your journey.
Understanding EV Range
The range displayed is an estimate and can vary depending on vehicle load and payload, driving speed, weather conditions, use of heating or air conditioning, and terrain and road conditions.
Important: Motorway driving, cold weather and carrying heavy loads can significantly reduce the vehicle's range.
Charging Your Vehicle
Finding a Charger: Recommended apps:
- Zapmap
- Electroverse
- Google Maps
- Pod Point
- Shell Recharge
Many public chargers accept contactless payment or app payment. Charging costs during the hire are the responsibility of the hirer.
Approximate Charging Times
Slow (3–7kW): 6–12 hours
Fast (7–22kW): 2–4 hours
Rapid (50kW+): 1–2 hours
Ultra-Rapid (100kW+): 20–60 minutes
Running Low on Charge
The vehicle will provide warnings as the battery level decreases. We recommend locating a charging station as soon as a low-battery warning appears.
Driving Tips
• Drive smoothly and avoid harsh acceleration
• Use regenerative braking where available
• Maintain steady motorway speeds
• Pre-plan longer journeys with charging stops
• Allow additional charging time during cold weather
EV Breakdown & Charging Issues
If the vehicle displays a warning light, fault message, will not charge, or runs out of charge:
Do
✔ Stop safely and contact Berkshire Van Hire or the out-of-hours breakdown number (listed on the top right of your rental agreement) immediately.
✔ Advise any warning messages displayed on the dashboard.
✔ Follow the instructions provided by Berkshire Van Hire or the out-of-hours breakdown provider.
Do Not:
✘ Attempt to jump-start, tow-start or repair the vehicle.
✘ Tamper with the battery, charging equipment or electrical systems.
✘ Use damaged charging cables or unsuitable charging equipment.
✘ Authorise repairs, recovery or tyre replacement without Berkshire Van Hire's prior approval.
Tyre Problems
DO:
✔ Stop as soon as it is safe to do so if you suspect a puncture or tyre damage.
✔ Contact Berkshire Van Hire or the out of hours breakdown provider for assistance.
DO NOT:
✘ Continue driving on a flat or damaged tyre, as electric vehicles are heavier and additional damage may occur.
✘ Arrange tyre replacement or repairs without Berkshire Van Hire's prior authorisation.
Important Safety Information
⚡ Electric vehicle batteries operate at high voltage.
⚡ Never attempt repairs to the battery, charging cables or electrical systems.
⚡ If the vehicle has been involved in an accident and battery damage is suspected, exit the vehicle when safe to do so and contact emergency services and Berkshire Van Hire immediately.
NEVER attempt to jump-start, tow-start or repair an electric vehicle yourself.
Returning Your Vehicle
Electric vehicles are supplied with a minimum 80% battery charge and should be returned with at least 20% battery charge. Please allow sufficient time to charge the vehicle before returning it.
A recharge fee will be applied where a vehicle is returned below 20%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are EVs difficult to drive?
No. Most EVs are automatic and are often easier to drive than conventional vehicles.
Do I pay for charging?
Yes. Charging costs during the hire are the responsibility of the hirer.
What happens if I return the vehicle below 20% charge?
A recharge fee will be applied.