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

  
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• 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

  
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  • 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.

  
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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).

  
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• 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.

3. Plan your routes: For trips to the Rockies (Banff, Lake Louise), make sure there are stations along the way.
4. 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.