welcome welcome

Some things about Electric Vehicles take some getting used to. (Like the humming sound and zippy acceleration.) But whether you’re new to EVs or basically a pro, this guide will make driving ours a breeze. 

 

So give the videos a quick watch (and bookmark this page), book your EV, and take it slow.

 

 

 

Read our Top FAQs red circle with right arrow to link

Booking your EV

To find an EV, click “car type” in the search bar and look for "Kia Niro – EV" or "Chevrolet Bolt EV".

car type

 

When searching, look for “EV” in the car name or a ⚡ lightning bolt symbol next to the car (see above picture).

 

 

Book an EV

Starting your trip

Okay, you’re ready to go electric, but have some questions. Let’s go over the basics.

What's driving a Zipcar EV like? play
starting

Quick tips:

  • Some of our EVs are parked at spots with a charging station. Check the location details in your reservation. If your EV is at a home-charging location, you’ll need to unplug after you start your trip.  
  • After you turn on the car, check the charge level and range on the dashboard to see how many miles you can go before you need to find a charging station. 

 

For more info about starting your trip, check out our Support Center Guides. 

During your trip

Let's review range expectations for your EV. Everyone wonders. (And it’s ok to talk about it.)

How far can my EV go? play
range

Quick Tips:  

  • If you need to charge mid-trip, use the charge card in the visor to pay at that network’s charging station. 

  • Turn off the car and keep it unlocked when you’re ready to charge. ⚠️ If you end your trip or lock the car, you won’t be able to open the charging door to plug in. If this happens, call us at 1-866-4ZIPCAR.   

  • You might need to hit “Start” on some charging stations.

 

For more info about charging, check out our Support Center Guides. 

 

Need to find a charger?

Use the PlugShare app or Google maps.

 

* Driving ranges are an estimate and may vary based on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, vehicle model, driving conditions, driving habits and weather.

Ending your trip

It’s like any other Zipcar— return the EV to the same location you picked it up from and follow the steps to end your reservation.

How do I end my trip? play
ending

Quick tips for EVs at home-charging locations: 

  • Some home-charging locations may ask you to swipe the charge card to charge the car, before ending your trip in the app. Check your reservation details in the app for instructions on how to charge the car.  

  • ⚠️ If you end your trip or lock the car, you won’t be able to open the charging door to plug in at a home-charging location. If this happens, call us at 1-866-4ZIPCAR.  

 

For more info about ending your trip, check out our Support Center Guides. 

Need more help?

Visit our Help Center to troubleshoot or call us at 1-866-4ZIPCAR if you can’t find answers there.

Get help