Getting true value from a rental car

THERE was a time when renting a car was a relatively predictable transaction. Travellers needed a vehicle for a few days, selected a category, collected the keys and returned it when the trip was over. “The conversation around car rental has shifted. Customers are increasingly looking beyond the daily rate and considering whether the vehicle, rental period, flexibility and supporting services are right for the journey they are planning,” says Kerry- Ann Lawrie, GM: Corporate and Car Rental Sales at Avis Southern Africa . She adds that price will always play a role in a rental decision, but it is only one part of the value equation. “A lower daily rate does not necessarily represent better value if the vehicle is not suited to the journey, the rental period is restrictive or the customer requires additional services and flexibility.” Duration in particular is becoming an important part of the decision. Avis has seen short-term rental activity grow by 53%. “For some customers, mobility is measured in days. For others, it may be weeks or months. The real value comes from having an option that fits the period for which mobility is actually required,” says Lawrie. A broad fleet allows customers and travel advisers to consider what will make the journey work best, choosing from compact vehicles, sedans, SUVs, multipurpose vehicles or options suited to more specialised requirements. “A family travelling with luggage may have very different needs from a business traveller attending meetings across a city. A group travelling together may prioritise space and practicality, while a customer requiring mobility for several weeks may place greater emphasis on comfort and flexibility,” says Lawrie. “Ask questions such as: How many people are travelling? For how long? Where are they going? What will they need to carry? How much flexibility does the itinerary require? And what would make the journey easier?” Lawrie believes these questions help move the focus from simply finding a vehicle to finding an option that genuinely supports the traveller’s needs. Drive Electric has a fleet of Leapmotor vehicles, including the Leapmotor C10 electric SUV. Photo: Drive Electric To page 8 Kerry-Ann Lawrie The Audi Q2, a compact SUV, offers a roomy interior, premium comfort and modern features, ideal for both city driving and longer journeys. Photo: Avis