Words by Benjamin Russell
A growing number of motorists are considering an electric vehicle as their next purchase, with Tesla being the obvious choice for those looking for something with style and status. But with concerns over issues such as range and the access to recharging points, it can be worrying to make the jump from fossil fuel.
Having identified this, car hire company SIXT have added the Tesla Model Y to its fleet and are offering longer hires so people can try before they buy. What’s more, those signing up before the end of November can get access to an exclusive Tesla Tour package which offers mystery routes designed to showcase what the vehicles have to offer with the chance to have some fun along the way.
The tours include three mystery journeys – one per month – taking the driver on a scenic journey to discover a surprise UK destination, filled with picturesque routes, adventurous activities and, most importantly, electric charging points along the way.
When purchasing the package, customers select the dates they want, and then on the day of departure, receive a packing checklist, including anything from goggles and a beach towel to hiking boots, as well as a list of postcodes to put into the car’s GPS. The postcodes will take them to electric charging points, activities, and the final destination – a beautiful hotel for an overnight stay while their Tesla recharges.
From hikes in the Lake District to paddle boarding in Surrey, the activities will give drivers the chance to enjoy some of the country’s most stunning scenery and Instagram-worthy activities, all while their car battery is charging.
An example of one itinerary is a scenic drive from London in a southern direction towards the New Forest. On the way, stop off at Go Ape Southampton for some axe throwing while your Tesla recharges. After a few hours of fun, head to your home for the night at Forest Lodge, a boutique hotel in Lyndhurst where there is a charging point conveniently located in the car park.
Start your day off with a complimentary breakfast at the hotel before heading off to Houdini’s Escape Room Experience. On the way home, pop the car on for one last charge and enjoy a spot of go-karting.
The Tesla fleet is available now for subscription via the SIXT+ subscription model, which allows for full flexibility, without long-term commitment or other contractual obligations. Customers pay a monthly fixed price and fuel costs without any additional charges and can cancel at any time.
The Tesla Tour package costs £800 and is available to customers subscribing to a Tesla for three or more months.
Tim Vetters, Managing Director of SIXT UK commented: “Adding Tesla cars to our SIXT+ offering is a really exciting step, and we know our customers will think so, too. But we love to go the extra mile and give our customers something to make the experience that much more special – and we think our Tesla Tour packages do just that. Subscribe to SIXT+ and choose a Tesla and get the chance to see the country and embark on adventures you may not have otherwise — what a brilliant way to make the most of your rental car!”
The addition of electric vehicles comes on the back of the announcement of SIXT’s new sustainability programme to further accelerate CO2 reduction and demand for smart e-mobility. The electrification of the fleet forms just one component of the programme, which aims to inspire even more customers to experience sustainable mobility.
Those interested in signing up to the tours can email SixtTeslaTour@smarts.agency for more information.
Top 10 activities for you to recharge, while your car recharges:
Lake Windermere, Lake District National Park, Windermere, LA23 1LJ.
The Lake District is known for having one of the best wild swimming spots in the country. Put your swimming skills to the test while your car charges nearby.
Mr Mulligans, Unit 5A The Brewery Quarter, Henrietta Street, Cheltenham, GL50 4FA.
If you’re naturally competitive, Mr Mulligans in Cheltenham features a mini golf course, shuffleboard and electro darts all under one roof. Ready, set go!
Komedia, 22-23 Westgate Street, Bath, BA1 1EP.
This live music and entertainment venue is just the place to while away a few hours thanks to its packed schedule of performers while your car charges.
Folly Dolly Falls , Meltham, West Yorkshire.
A hike to this picturesque waterfall in Yorkshire is just the thing to make you forget the time. Conveniently park and charge at the nearby Huntsman Inn before setting off. Make sure you know where you’re going, the falls are a hidden gem.
Logiclock Escape Rooms, 6 Trinity Walk, Nottingham, NG1 2AN.
There’s nothing like an escape room to get your blood pumping. With three different rooms to choose from, escape through your chosen adventure while your car charges a short distance away.
Black Mountain Adventure, Three Cocks, Brecon, LD3 0SD.
With ‘adventure’ in its name, this activity centre is sure to deliver a thrilling few hours of fun, whether it’s kayaking, paddleboarding or white-water rafting.
Rainbow Rocket Climbing Centre, 49 Clifton Rd, Cambridge CB1 7ED.
Looking to get in a workout? This rock-climbing centre in Cambridge will have you working up a sweat in no time.
Fistral Beach Surf School, Fistral, Newquay TR7 1HY.
If you’ve always wanted to tick ‘learn to surf’ off your bucket list, now is the time. While your car is charging, you’ll be learning a new skill.
Sea Life Manchester, Trafford Palazzo, Trafford, Manchester, M17 8AS.
Another one for the bucket list, depending on how brave you are! Kill some time and try the ‘Swim with Shark’s’ experience, something you’ll never forget.
Rage Room Glasgow, Hype Leisure, 72 Hydepark Street, Glasgow, G3 8BW.
Smash it, literally, at this Rage Room in Glasgow and return to your car feeling de-stressed and ready to take on your next adventure.
