Start with the right pick‑up
Flying into LAX and planning an electric road trip? Begin where the fleet is largest and hours are longest—at LAX Airport car rental. You’ll see transparent totals, deposit rules, and mileage policies before you book, plus Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up on most rates.
Staying in town for a day before driving north or east? Compare an in‑city location like Los Angeles car hire. Parking garages around Downtown and Santa Monica increasingly offer Level 2 chargers; confirm overnight options with your hotel for stress‑free top‑ups.
Three classic EV routes
PCH to Santa Barbara (or Big Sur): Cruise the coast with scenic stops in Malibu and Ventura. For family comfort and luggage, many travelers choose minivan rental in Los Angeles—great when you’re carrying beach gear and snacks.
Joshua Tree & Palm Springs: Head east on I‑10 for desert landscapes and star‑filled nights. For highway stability and cargo flexibility, consider SUV hire in Los Angeles.
San Diego loop: Combine beach towns with city culture. If you’re brand‑loyal or value specific desk layouts, you can filter by brand and select Alamo car rental at LAX while keeping Hola Car Rentals’ price transparency.
Charging & planning fundamentals
- Know charger types: Level 2 for overnight (slower), DC fast for midday top‑ups. Factor charging time into sightseeing breaks.
- Target 20–80%: On road days, partial fills can be faster than waiting to 100%—and they’re better for battery health on many models.
- Pre‑condition the battery: If the vehicle supports it, warming or cooling the pack before fast charging shortens sessions.
- Check hotel parking: Confirm overnight charging or nearby garages; bring a portable cable if provided with your rental.
Cost & coverage notes
Electric miles are usually cheaper than fuel on the same route, but fast charging can add up on heavy driving days. With Hola Car Rentals, All‑Inclusive+ on selected itineraries can bundle maximum coverage and third‑party liability, and many rates include complimentary travel insurance with medical coverage up to US$150,000.
FAQs
Can I mix DC fast and Level 2?
Absolutely—quick DC top‑ups at lunch and overnight Level 2 in cities make relaxed road days.
What if a charger is busy?
Have a Plan B pinned nearby and arrive with a buffer (10–20%) so you’re never rushed to the next stop.
Ready to roll? Plan your EV road trip with Hola Car Rentals—flexible, all‑inclusive options, clear pricing, and plenty of vehicle categories to fit your route.
Sample day‑by‑day ideas
2 days, coastal sampler: Day 1 Malibu beaches and Ventura; overnight in Santa Barbara. Day 2 return via Ojai’s mountain curves with a lunch charge. 3–4 days, desert escape: Split time between Palm Springs and Joshua Tree; book a hotel with Level 2 to wake up full each morning.
Charging etiquette
- Move your car when you reach your target SOC so others can use the stall.
- Share stations courteously—some sites split power between paired connectors.
- Pre‑check access hours for garages with chargers; some close overnight.
Prep list before pick‑up
- Download two charging apps and add a payment method.
- Pack a compact cable bag and microfiber cloth for connectors.
- Enable plug‑and‑charge if supported by your model; it can simplify sessions.
Weather & terrain notes
Coastal mornings can be cool and foggy; inland deserts swing hot in the afternoon. Range fluctuates with temperature, speed, and elevation—expect slightly lower efficiency on fast coastal stretches with headwinds and on mountain climbs toward Idyllwild or Angeles Crest. Plan charging windows around scenic stops so charging time becomes part of the experience, not a chore.
