Hertz announces car subscription program

Photo credit: Dwight Burdette - Wikimedia Commons

For a monthly fee, subscribers can choose from a selection of vehicles

Hertz is set to launch a new vehicle subscription service for those not interested in owning a car.

The Hertz My Car subscription service will give consumers access to select sedans, crossovers, SUVs, and trucks for a monthly fee of either $999 or $1,399 per month, depending on which tier of the service they choose.

The $999 package lets subscribers choose from full-size sedans, small SUVs, and trucks. The $1,399 package gives subscribers access to luxury sedans, regular SUVs, and large trucks. Subscribers are allowed to exchange vehicles two times per month.

Both packages also come with roadside assistance, vehicle maintenance, and vehicle damage and limited liability protection.

Alternative to car ownership

“We feel well positioned to lead in vehicle subscription services,” said Jayesh Patel, Hertz Senior Vice President of Brand. “We’ve seen growth in our longer-term rentals in recent years which we believe is one of several positive indicators the time is right for this service.”

Hertz noted that a growing percentage of consumers, particularly those who live in cities, aren’t interested in owning a vehicle. The company shared a survey by Cox Automotive which revealed that 40 percent of respondents said owning a vehicle is not necessary, but access to transportation is.

Rival Enterprise kicked off a pilot of a similar vehicle subscription service last month. While more expensive than Hertz’ program, Enterprise’s service lets customers exchange vehicles up to four times per month.

Hertz My Car will launch first as a pilot program in Austin, Texas and Atlanta.