Localiza, a South American rental car company, has launched Localiza Fast, a self-service car rental process through a mobile app.

The self-service went through a test period carried out with customers selected in specific Localiza locations in Belo Horizonte and Sao Paulo.

Localiza Fast is now available to Localiza customers in the squares of Sao Paulo (Guarulhos and Congonhas), Rio de Janeiro (Galeao e Santos Dumont), Belo Horizonte (Confins and Savassi), Brasilia, and Porto Alegre.

The technology is part of Localiza’s investment program of approximately 10 million R$ (Brazilian Reals) intended for product improvements and new technologies.

“Before the deployment, we went through a pilot stage with dozens of vehicles,” said Guilherme Braz, Localiza's customer experience and pricing director. “We have adopted the co-creation process with customers as a way of offering a service that is more adjusted to the user's needs. With an exceptional approval, Localiza Fast now reaches to the main capitals and the expectation is very successful.”

With the technology, the customer can leave without needing to go through the service desk. Through the mobile app, the user checks in to inform of his or her arrival. Then the app points to the location of the car, with details such as parking space number, vehicle license plate, and the model photo chosen. When the renter arrives at the determined spot, the "open the car" button will appear on the screen, which, when activated, opens the vehicle automatically. The keys and rental document will be in the glove compartment.

“Localiza recognizes that the innovation is a key factor in attracting and retaining customers,” said Braz. “That is why we are always looking forward to offer products and services that provide more flexibility and simplicity in the rental of cars, giving more freedom of choice and autonomy to our customers. The all-digital rental tool aims to transform the car rental landscape in the country, and we believe that the rented car will become an even more interesting mobility option. We want to surprise and increase customer loyalty.”