Electric vehicles are no longer a niche option. As Italian consumers try to make more sustainable choices, it’s not uncommon to see battery-powered cars and designated charging points, particularly in bigger cities. That said, Italy is behind the curve in its uptake of EVs compared to other European countries.
So, what does that mean for travelers, especially those who are used to driving an EV in their home country? How easy is it to find charging stations? Should I drive to Rome in my own EV, or hire one when I arrive?
We take a look at how easy and practical it is to drive an electric vehicle in Rome.
Can I drive an electric vehicle in Rome?
Yes! In fact, electric vehicles can even go in areas that gas cars can’t. EVs are permitted to move freely within the ZTL (limited traffic zones). Note that you must request permission and provide license plate details first.
Where can I find EV charging points in Rome?
As of December 2022, there are 36,000 charging points across Italy. According to Ewiva, motorway charging points have also quadrupled from 118 in 2021 to 496 in 2022, making longer journeys more feasible for more drivers.
In Rome, charging points are well distributed across the city. Use the following websites, and their corresponding apps, to find charging points near you.
Driving to Italy from other European countries is becoming more common but it does require a little planning to avoid potentially running out of juice during longer motorway driving. The Italian government plans to double the number of public charging points by 2030 and, as demand rises, we expect the infrastructure to improve and increase capacity for EV motorists.
Hiring an EV in Rome
Renting an EV rather than a gas-powered car means less noise and air pollution during your trip (no tailpipe emissions and a quieter driving experience)! Check rates for electric vehicles with rental companies such as Europcar, Noleggiare, Avis, and Sixt.
A more flexible option is car sharing, or renting by the minute, hour, or day. Share Now’s fleet of electric Fiat 500s can be unlocked via the app and rented for only as long as you need them. Drivers don’t pay extra for charging, parking, or insurance.
Use the app to find the nearest car or, if you’ve spotted a Share Now vehicle while you’re out and about, check if it’s free and unlock it. For trips of 1 to 30 days, you can also order a car to be delivered to your location of choice for free.
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