Hertz PCO Alternatives: Smarter Choices for Today’s Uber Drivers

London’s ride-hailing sector continues to expand rapidly. So, let’s check the best Hertz alternatives, shall we?

What Is Hertz PCO? A Smart Move for London's Ride-Hailing Drivers

With decades of experience in vehicle leasing, Hertz now provides fully licensed PCO (Private Hire Vehicle) rentals that meet Transport for London (TfL) compliance standards. This service targets self-employed drivers working with platforms like Uber, Bolt, and Free Now.

PCO Hire by Hertz: Designed for Professional Drivers

Through its PCO program, Hertz offers hire-ready vehicles with the PHV (Private Hire Vehicle) licence already in place. Cars are equipped to meet the daily demands of professional driving in the capital, featuring low-emission models and fully electric options. Unlike traditional leases, these rentals come with short, flexible terms and support services specifically crafted for private hire professionals.

This means drivers don't need to worry about securing their own licence plates or navigating the administrative complexities of setting up a compliant vehicle — the pack comes ready to hit the road.

Why Drives Choose Hertz for PCO

Uber-ready from day one: Vehicles are pre-approved for Uber, pending the driver's own account status.
All-inclusive packages: Services typically include insurance, servicing, road tax, and breakdown cover.
Eco-friendly fleet: Options such as the Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Ioniq Electric allow drivers to save on congestion and ULEZ charges.

Hertz PCO helps eliminate the startup friction for new private hire drivers and gives experienced riders dependable, compliant vehicles without long-term commitments.

Explore More Vehicle Options with Hertz PCO Alternatives

GM Direct Hire, one of the notable alternatives to Hertz, offers a diverse fleet tailored specifically for private hire needs, making it easier for drivers to stay competitive on Uber and other platforms.

Extensive Fleet Choices with GM Direct Hire

GM Direct Hire operates as a specialist provider of PCO-ready vehicles. The company supplies a consistently updated selection of models suited for private hire across London, whether drivers prefer hybrids, EVs, or traditional petrol options. Unlike a fixed contract or vehicle, this model gives drivers the agility to switch based on performance, running costs, or Uber requirements.

What vehicles are currently in rotation? The list continues to evolve, but among the currently offered models are:

Toyota Prius Hybrid – A staple for Uber drivers, offering reliable mileage and low fuel consumption.
Kia e-Niro – Fully electric with a WLTP range of up to 282 miles, making it feasible for full-day operation without recharging mid-shift.
MG4 – With up to 250 miles of range and spacious boot capacity, it's built for private hire economics.

Go Electric or Hybrid to Maximise Earnings

Uber’s incentives powerfully influence today's PCO marketplace. Choosing a hybrid or all-electric vehicle not only cuts fuel costs, but also qualifies drivers for Uber Green.

This ride category, available in London since early 2021, offers fares equal to standard UberX rides. However, it prioritises greener vehicles in the app experience, translating to more bookings.

Recent government data reinforce the savings: the average cost per mile for electric vehicles can be under 6p, compared to around 14p for petrol cars (when factoring in fuel and maintenance). Source: UK Office for Zero Emission Vehicles.

Drive Kia E-Niro with PCO: Smart, Electric & Road-Ready

The Kia E-Niro stands out as a fully electric SUV that delivers a perfect balance between range, comfort, and eco-conscious driving. Designed with PCO drivers in mind, this vehicle offers up to 285 miles of range (WLTP combined) on a single charge, making it ideal for long ride-hailing shifts without constant stops for top-ups.

With zero emissions and whisper-quiet performance, it meets London’s TFL standards and avoids penalties like the Congestion Charge and ULEZ fees—putting more earnings in the driver’s pocket. The regenerative braking system also boosts efficiency, especially when navigating dense urban traffic.

Why the Kia E-Niro Works for PCO

Generous Boot Space: 451 litres of luggage room provides enough storage for airport runs and passenger luggage.
Fast Charging Compatibility: Rapid charging (up to 80% in 54 minutes with a 100kW charger) reduces downtime between trips. Source: Kia E-Niro PCO.
Comfort-Focused Interior: Heated front seats, roomy cabin, and a silent electric motor offer a serene experience for driver and passenger alike.

Available Across Greater London

Unlike limited PCO rental schemes tied to specific boroughs, the Kia E-Niro is readily available across Greater London through several leading PCO hire services. One such provider, GM Direct Hire, offers the Kia Niro 2 EV on a weekly rental basis tailored for Uber, Bolt, Ola, and other ride-hailing drivers.

Their fleet includes recent models with full servicing and insurance bundles, and they permit rental extensions or flexible terminations to match changing job patterns.

Is the E-Niro the Upgrade You Need?

Imagine checking your ride-hailing app and knowing that each shift saves you fuel costs and emissions fees while delivering a smoother drive all day. Have you tested a PCO-ready electric vehicle yet?

Comparing Hertz PCO Flexibility with Other PCO Rental Contracts

What Makes a Rental Contract Truly Flexible?

Flexibility in a PCO rental agreement can directly impact income potential, driver satisfaction, and workload management. For most drivers in London's private hire market, the ability to rent on a short-term basis without long lock-in periods is a deal-breaker. The details below compare Hertz's weekly rental model with the contractual terms offered by G&M Direct Hire, a known competitor in the PCO market.

Hertz Weekly Rentals: Built for Short-Term Commitment

Hertz offers a transparent and driver-oriented weekly rental system. Drivers can renew on a week-to-week basis without worrying about early termination penalties or long-term obligations. Return policies are simple: vehicles can be handed back at the end of any paid rental week, provided notice is given.

Details from Hertz’s official weekly rental page confirm:

No long-term commitment—contracts are renewed weekly.
Rental includes insurance, maintenance, and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Free cancellation is available if done in line with Hertz's notice requirements.

G&M Direct Hire: Fixed 4-Week Minimum

In comparison, G&M Direct Hire locks drivers into an initial commitment of four weeks. This means the car cannot be returned before the end of that term. Additionally, once you’ve decided to return the vehicle, the company requires a full week's advance notice.

Minimum hire term: 4 weeks (non-negotiable).
Required 1-week notice before returning the vehicle.
Less ideal for drivers with changing schedules or part-time driving patterns.

This structure limits flexibility and may not suit drivers who need to pause or stop driving for personal or financial reasons mid-month.

Who Benefits More from Hertz’s Model?

New drivers are experimenting with ride-hailing. Full-time drivers who switch platforms often. Even part-timers with fluctuating availability. These groups gain more with Hertz. If you're unsure about long-term driving or earnings potential, weekly rental keeps your commitment low and options open.

The week-by-week setup not only protects you from overcommitting but also matches the unpredictable rhythms of London's ride-hailing industry. For those prioritising adaptability, the numbers favour Hertz every time.