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Austin Resident Plans Electric Car Rental Business for Tourists

E-Cars Austin plans to rent electric cars to tourists in downtown Austin. However, Austin residents are not sure whether the business would appeal to visitors.

by Staff
August 12, 2009
1 min to read


A local of Austin, Texas will begin renting electric cars to tourists, according to statesman.com.

Through his company, E-Cars Austin, Steve McDermott will offer the Gem e2 cars to Austin visitors. The vehicles reach a maximum of 25 mph and have a 40-mile range. McDermott hopes to expand his fleet, which currently has six vehicles.

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Renters will pay $30 for an hour or $50 for two hours.

However, several Austin residents are not sure the electric vehicles will work in their city. One commenter by the name of Roger said, “Nice idea, wrong state. Maybe on of the [other] states will be more receptive. Think Rhode Island.”

Another comment made by AgentG said, “Without a/c and [the] exposure to wind and rain, who do these golf carts appeal to? Why would a tourist not take a rental car? Furthermore, the reception they will get in downtown traffic will not leave them with a positive impression of our city.”

There was some glint of hope, however. Anonymous posted, “Possibly these cars could have guaranteed parking spots for sightseeing spots in the Austin area. That would be a plus. I’m sure these could work out for the tourist angle.”

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