Thrifty Car Rental, part of The Hertz Corp., has launched in Singapore by opening two downtown locations. Thrifty Singapore is operated by Hertz's franchise partner Sime Darby, a Malaysian-based corporation involved in the automotive industry.

"The launch of Thrifty operations in Singapore represents an important part of the brand's international growth strategy across Asia,” said Michel Taride, group president, Hertz International. “Thrifty's expansion to an important business and tourist destination such as Singapore results in more choices for those car rental customers who seek convenience, great value and the trust of a global brand. Sime Darby's reputation and strength in the local automotive sector presents a significant growth potential for Thrifty in Singapore."

Thrifty Singapore's fleet of vehicles includes compact, economy, intermediate, standard, luxury, full-size passenger, premium and sports utility vehicles (SUVs).

"Sime Darby Services Pte Ltd has always believed in upholding excellent customer service levels and meeting our customers' different needs,” said Eddie Ho, general manager, Sime Darby Services Pte Ltd. “We are very enthusiastic about operating a trust-worthy global brand such as Thrifty in Singapore. Thrifty offers great value quality products and services that will allow us to meet the growing demand from value conscious leisure and business customers."

Starting its expansion to Asia last year, Thrifty Car Rental currently also operates in Malaysia and Philippines.