Car hire goes self-service

Hertz Europe has announced plans to accelerate its adoption of self-service technology by rolling out Self-Service Express touch screen kiosks at selected locations across nine countries in Europe for all customers (not just members-only) who have prepaid for their rental.  At the same time Hertz has launched a free reservations application for the iPhone in 18 languages for customers in Europe.

Similar to an airline check-in kiosk, the touch screen kiosk collects the customer’s personal information and identifies the reservation.  It then completes the rental car pick-up process, sending the person on his/her way quickly.  In addition, it allows Hertz customers to select and purchase upgrades, optional insurance and waiver products, fuel options and add-ons such as child seats and the Hertz NeverLost® in-car satellite navigation system.

The screens are now available at Bergamo Orio al Serio, Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa, Rome Ciampino, Rome Fiumicino, Pisa (Italy); Edinburgh, Heathrow, Stansted, Prestwick (UK); Malaga (Spain); and Hahn (Germany).  The company also plans to enable the kiosks to accept non-prepaid tariffs in early 2011.

The Hertz iPhone application, which has already enjoyed widespread popularity in the US, allows customers to make reservations, save their Hertz #1 Club member number, search and find nearby Hertz locations, via their mobile devices. www.hertz.co.uk

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