Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Drive Electric

Drive Electric is Cape Town's premium electric mobility partner, operating across three pillars: Electric Rental (self-drive EV rental), Chauffeur & Tours (private chauffeur-driven experiences), and Corporate Mobility (fleet solutions for events and businesses). Below are answers to our most common questions, organised by service.

What are the benefits of driving electric?

Driving electric offers a range of powerful advantages:

  • Lower running costs compared to petrol or diesel
  • Zero tailpipe emissions, reducing local air pollution
  • Instant acceleration and smooth, quiet driving
  • Regenerative braking for greater efficiency
  • Low centre of gravity, improving handling, comfort and safety
  • Less noise, for a calmer driving experience

While exploring Cape Town, look out for free, priority or dedicated EV parking bays with convenient access.

Electric Rental

What is the minimum rental period?

Our Electric Rental is a flexible 3-day minimum self-drive rental — no deposit, no ownership costs. Just plug in and drive.

What's included in the daily rate?

  • 150km per day included — R4/km thereafter
  • Comprehensive insurance included (R5,000 excess)
  • No deposit required
  • Charging costs are payable by the driver

What do I need to rent a vehicle?

  • A valid driver's license (from any country)
  • A valid ID or passport
  • A valid credit card

How do I book an electric rental?

All bookings are completed online at www.driveelectric.co.za, under Electric Rental.

Is there a zero-excess option?

No. We recommend checking whether your travel insurance or credit card covers rental excess.

What if the damage isn't my fault?

The renter remains liable for all damages, including accidental tyre and windscreen damage, during the rental period.

Can I add extra drivers?

Yes, extra drivers are free of charge, provided we receive a valid license before the rental begins. Vehicles may not be entrusted to a third party without our prior approval.

Do you offer delivery and collection?

No. All vehicles must be collected and returned to our dedicated Cape Town locations, selected at checkout.

Can I collect in one city and return in another?

No. Our rental fleet is based in Cape Town, and vehicles must be collected and returned there.

What is your cancellation policy?

  • 2+ weeks before rental start: 100% refund
  • Less than 2 weeks: 50% booking fee is forfeited

Are pets allowed?

No. Any evidence of animals in the vehicle may result in damage charges and a valet fee.

Are the vehicles tracked?

Yes, all vehicles are tracked for your safety. Any alerts relating to irresponsible driving may result in contract cancellation.

What should I do in the event of an accident?

Call us immediately. If another vehicle or witnesses are involved, collect their details and take photos of all damages. A police report is required for any insurance claim — we will assist you.

Chauffeur & Tours

What's included in a Chauffeur & Tours experience?

  • Private, chauffeur-driven experiences
  • Flexible half-day and full-day itineraries
  • Convenient hotel pickup & drop-off
  • Fully customised routes available

How do I book a tour?

Browse and book directly on www.driveelectric.co.za under Chauffeur & Tours — from iconic routes like Cape Point, the Winelands, and Hermanus, to hourly and full-day private Tesla chauffeur experiences.

Can I customise my itinerary?

Yes — fully customised routes are available in addition to our curated tours.

Can I book by the hour instead of a full day?

Yes, hourly private chauffeur experiences are available alongside half-day and full-day tours.

Is gratuity for the chauffeur included in the price?

No, gratuity is not included and is left to your discretion.

What happens if weather affects an outdoor tour (e.g. whale watching, Cape Point)?

We'll first attempt to reschedule your tour. If that's not possible, a full refund applies.

What is your cancellation policy for tours?

  • 2+ weeks before tour date: 100% refund
  • Up to 48 hours before: 50% refund
  • Within 48 hours: no refund

Corporate Mobility

What does Corporate Mobility include?

  • Executive & VIP transport
  • Investor roadshows & summits
  • Hotel-to-venue shuttle fleets
  • Board-level & C-suite mobility
  • ESG-aligned transport

We scale from a single executive to an entire delegate fleet without dropping the standard.

Who has used Drive Electric's corporate fleet?

Drive Electric has provided fully electric chauffeur fleets for Nedbank (B20 Summit, Africa Energy Forum) and Discovery Green (Mining Indaba, Africa Energy Forum), moving international delegates on renewable-charged vehicles.

Do you provide sustainability/ESG reporting?

Yes, carbon and energy data is available on request for corporate clients.

How do I book for an event or delegation?

Corporate bookings start with a consultation — email chris@driveelectric.co.za or call +27 82 737 9578.

How far in advance should we book for an event?

Lead time varies depending on the size and scope of the event — get in touch early so we can confirm fleet availability.

General

What happens to my card details?

Your payment information is stored securely using internationally recognised secure payment systems.

Where can I read more about EV news?

Visit our Latest News section at www.driveelectric.co.za/blogs/news for EV industry updates and Drive Electric announcements.

How do I get in touch?

Email chris@driveelectric.co.za or call +27 82 737 9578.