Is it possible to rent an electric vehicle, and what charging stations are available?

Calgary is actively developing infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs), making them a convenient and environmentally friendly option for locals and tourists alike. Below is a detailed guide on where to rent an EV and how to use charging stations.

Where to rent an electric vehicle in Calgary?

1. Rental companies

  • Hertz

  • Models: Tesla, Hyundai Kona Electric.

  • Prices: From 98 CAD/day.

  • Features: Free cancellation, insurance option.

  • Hertz website.

  • Avis

  • Models: Tesla Model 3, Ford Mustang Mach-E.

  • Prices: From 80 CAD/day.

  • Location: YYC Airport, Rental Car Centre.

  • Avis website.

  • National Car Rental

    • Models: Polestar 2, Porsche Taycan.

  • Prices: From 130 CAD/day.

  • Advantages: Emerald Club loyalty program.

  • National website.

  • Enterprise

    • Models: Jaguar I-PACE, Tesla Model S.

  • Prices: From 150 CAD/day.

  • Enterprise website.

2. Peer-to-peer platforms

  • Turo

    • Models: Tesla Model 3/Y, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt.

  • Prices: From 23 CAD/day.

  • Advantages: Discounts up to 20% for long-term rentals.

  • Turo website.

  • Local EV Rental

    • Specialization: Electric cars only (Tesla Model 3 Performance).

  • Prices: From CAD 120/day.

  • Local EV Rental website.

Charging stations: types and locations

1. Types of chargers

  • Level 1 (120V): Slow charging (3–8 km/h), suitable for home use.
  • Level 2 (240V): Medium speed (20–50 km/h). Most common in public places.
  • Level 3 (DC Fast Charger): Fast charging (up to 80% in 30 minutes).

2. Charging station networks

  • Electrify Canada

  • Power: 150–350 kW.

    • Locations: YYC Airport, shopping centers (e.g., Westman Village).

  • Cost: From 0.33 CAD/min.

  • Electrify Canada website.

  • ChargePoint

    • Points: Over 50 stations in the city, including Fifth Avenue Volkswagen and Telus Park.

  • Prices: Depend on location (average cost – 0.25 CAD/kWh).

  • ChargePoint map.

  • Tesla Supercharger

    • Who: Tesla owners.

  • Locations: Airport, McDougall Parkade, Convention Centre Parkade.

  • Speed: Up to 250 kW.

3. Free charging stations

  • Calgary Parking Authority parking lots:
    • City Hall Parkade: 10 stations (4 universal, 6 for Tesla).
  • Convention Centre Parkade: 13 stations.
  • Terms and conditions: Free charging, but parking must be paid.

Tips for renting and charging

  1. Check compatibility: For example, Tesla requires Supercharger, other EVs require CCS or CHAdeMO.
  2. Use apps:
  • PlugShare: Map of all stations with reviews.
  • ChargeHub: Filter by charging type and network.
  1. Plan your routes: For trips to the Rockies (Banff, Lake Louise), make sure there are stations along the way.
  2. Save money:
  • Charge at night for lower rates.
    • Use free charging points in shopping centers (e.g., IKEA Calgary).

Conclusion

Renting an electric car in Calgary is an affordable and eco-friendly alternative. The city offers over 600 public charging stations, including Electrify Canada fast chargers. For rentals, choose traditional companies (Hertz, Avis) or P2P platforms (Turo) to find a car that fits your budget. Don't forget to check charging availability through apps and plan your routes in advance to make your trip comfortable and stress-free.