There have been many reports in recent weeks about increased demand for green cars from customers hiring vehicles. As a result, several rental companies have been forced to re-evaluate their approach to operations – and one company is attempting to go the extra mile to secure environmentalists’ custom.
National Car Rental has committed to a range of activities aimed at reducing its environmental impact and supporting customers’ environmental needs. These include:
In France:
National operates a green fleet programme meaning that 65 per cent of its fleets at 80 per cent of locations emit less than 140g/km of carbon dioxide (CO2).
In Spain:
National’s partner ATESTA is working in partnership with the Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving, and the Department of the Spanish Industry Ministry in starting a study to assign CO2 emissions to car types. Information has also been added to its website regarding green driving.
In Italy:
Its fleet of diesel vehicles have been fitted with particle filters.
In the UK:
The Toyota Prius has been added to the fleet and diesels now make up 35 per cent of the fleet. National was also the first vehicle rental brand to add CO2 emissions for each car group, helping customers to make environmentally friendly choices.
Neil Summerville, franchise director at National Car Rental, said: “Our goal is to provide travellers with a service that is convenient, cost-effective, safe and environmentally friendly.”
What do you make of these steps? And how important are environmental credentials in your decision-making when renting or hiring a car? Leave a comment with your thoughts.
