The Hertz Corporation, the world’s largest general use car rental brand, has announced that through its partnership with Vauxhall Motors, customers will be able to rent the stylish, electric Ampera from the Hertz on Demand EV car sharing fleet in London.

The revolutionary vehicle has a sophisticated propulsion system, including an extended range of up to 360 miles. The Ampera will be available to rent from next month at http://www.hertzondemand.co.uk.

Michel Taride, President, Hertz International and Executive Vice President, Hertz Corporation, said: “We are delighted to be introducing the Ampera to our growing fleet of electric vehicles. At Hertz, we are excited about new technology and innovations in smart, eco-friendly travel. This sleek car is perfect for our customers; not only is it fun to drive but also its range extender allows for longer trips.”

Voted the Car of the Year 2012, Vauxhall Ampera delivers between 25-50 miles of battery-powered electric drive with zero tailpipe emissions while driving. Customers wanting to use the electric vehicle on longer trips can do so with the Ampera’s on-board range-extending engine which helps to sustain the battery life, allowing the car to be used on distances of up to 360 miles in a single journey. A small 1.4-litre petrol-fuelled engine/generator runs at optimum efficiency, generating enough electricity to power the electric motor (but not the wheels) and operates seamlessly as part of the Ampera’s powertrain. The car seats four adults in comfort and its hatchback design offers excellent practicality.

The Ampera will incorporate Hertz On Demand’s leading, proprietary in-car technology which provides members a safe and superior car sharing experience. In the car, a hands-free audio kit connects members to an in-house Member Care Center representative - available 24/7, 365 days a year - should they have questions, need assistance or need to extend their use of the car.  Hertz On Demand is able to “communicate” with the vehicle, enabling representatives to unlock, engage and locate vehicles and cars are equipped with iPod connectivity, along with Bluetooth capabilities for hands free driving.

James Taylor, Vauxhall’s Fleet Sales Director said: “At Vauxhall we are passionate about investing in state-of-the-art efficient technology so that customers have access to fun, stylish and more environmentally friendly mobility. The partnership with Hertz means that even more people can experience first-hand the latest in electric technology by renting the Ampera.”

Hertz on Demand launched the first international car sharing club in December 2008 and has grown to more than 800 vehicles, 70,000 members and more than 300 locations worldwide, including corporate offices and universities. Corporate customers include Marriott International, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, and London Heathrow Airport.  The Hertz on Demand fleet features electric vehicles and plug-n hybrids. As well as the Vauxhall Ampera, its EVs include the Nissan LEAF and Mitsubishi i-MiEVs in London and Chevy Volt, Nissan LEAF, and smart fortwo electric drive in the US.