Author: Rentalmoose

Cheapest Electric Cars On The Market In 2022

EVs certainly don’t have to break the bank, and these vehicles prove it. Check out 10 of the cheapest electric cars from across the globe. Note that some of the models are only available in specific parts of the world. Buyers from the US, Europe, and Asia will all find at least one model that suits them, though.

We’ve only included cars with fully electric drivetrains on this list. If you’re wondering what the difference between an EV and a PHEV is, check out this article.

10 Cheapest Electric Cars To Buy In 2022

10. Opel Corsa-E- $33 100

The Opel Corsa-E is an eco-friendly variant of the popular Corsa. It's also one of the cheapest electric cars sold in Europe.
Opel Stellantis

The Corsa has been a vital part of Opel’s lineup for years. In fact, the Vauxhall Corsa is the best-selling vehicle in the United Kingdom. If you ever rented an economy car in Europe, there is a great chance that you have gotten an Opel Corsa. Now, the German automaker has introduced a cleaner, fully electric version of this beloved vehicle.

The Opel Corsa-E is one of the cheapest electric cars available on the market today, similar to its gas-powered counterpart which is also very affordable. The single-charge range can be as high as 400 kilometers (250 miles)in optimal weather conditions, thanks to the car’s 45kWh battery pack.

Rentalmoose tip: Wondering how long it takes to charge a 45kWh battery pack like the one in the Opel Corsa-e? Check out this insightful guide.

9. JAC iEV7S- $33 200

JAC iEV7s is a budget-friendly Chinese electric car that's sold throughout Europe, China and Russia.

Never heard of this electric car before? We don’t blame you. You may be surprised to hear that this EV is actually offered for sale in Europe- a first for the Chinese manufacturer. One thing is for sure- you are bound to stand out driving one of these around.

Not only is the JAC iEV7S one of the most unique picks on our list, but it is also one of the cheapest electric cars you can get your hands on. Pricing starts at roughly $33 000, or €30 000. In exchange, you receive a 116-horsepower EV with a claimed range of up to 300 kilometers on a single charge.

8. Chevrolet Bolt EV- $32 000

The futuristic Chevrolet Bolt EV is one of the only electric cars offered in the US for under $32 000.
Chevrolet Pressroom

The Bolt EV is perhaps one of the most futuristic-looking electric cars on the market today. The fact that it doubles as one of the most affordable ones, at least in the US, makes it even more attractive for potential buyers. Those who have driven one praise the car’s agile handling and best-in-class range.

Its 200-horsepower electric drivetrain has a range of up to 260 miles (420km) on a single charge. Buyers in America can drive off the lot in a brand new Bolt EV starting at just $31 995. And that’s before applying any tax reliefs, which are offered at both state and federal levels. Bad news for EV buyers in Europe- this model is no longer offered here.

7. Mini Cooper SE- $30 800

An electric Mini Cooper is an exceptional eco-friendly alternative to the iconic hatchback. It's also one of the cheapest EVs in Europe
BMW Press club

An electric Mini Cooper is an exceptional eco-friendly alternative to the iconic hatchback. It comes powered by a 32.6kWh battery pack, which generates 181 horsepower. As a result, the Mini Cooper SE can sprint to 100km/h (60mph) in only around 7 seconds.

The range of the Mini Cooper SE is quite similar to its competitors. Drivers can expect to go up to 275km (170 miles) on a single charge in optimal weather conditions when driving in the city, or around 180km (110 miles) in cold weather. Pricing starts at a little under $31 000 (€28 000) before extra options. Buyers in the US should prepare at least $30 750 to buy an electric Mini, excluding additional state and federal tax reliefs.

6. Volkswagen e-Up! -$29 800

The electric version of the Volkswagen Up! is affordable, fun to drive, and perfect for the daily commute.
Volkswagen Newsroom

Volkswagen’s E-Up! is one of the best EV deals under $30 000 (€27 000). Many owners praise the car’s practicality, small size, and surprisingly agile performance. The E-Up! is available throughout Europe, though it cannot be ordered in North America.

This small city car can drive over 300 kilometers on a single charge in optimal conditions, thanks to its 32kWh battery pack. As a result, the E-Up! is a solid pick for both the daily commute as well as longer trips. It can also accommodate up to four occupants, although the rear seats are a little cramped.

5. Nissan Leaf- $28 000 (Cheapest Electric Car In The US)

Nissan Leaf is the cheapest new electric car in the United States, starting at less than $30 000.
Nissan Newsroom

The new Leaf has quickly made headlines directly after its debut. This is because the electric Nissan Leaf is officially the cheapest new EV available on the US market. That’s right, car buyers in the US can drive off the lot in a brand new electric car for under $30 000. The base price sits at around $28 000, before any additional state and federal tax reliefs. In practice, this means that the price can go down even further depending on where the vehicle is purchased.

The new Nissan Leaf features a fully electric drivetrain powered by a 39kWh battery pack. This equates to a range of up to 355 kilometers (220 miles) in optimal conditions. That’s quite impressive given the car’s affordable price tag. Buyers in Europe should expect to pay a little more, between $33 000 to $36 500 (€30 000- €33 000) for the base model.

4. Fiat 500e- $26 100

Electric Fiat 500e parked next to vintage Fiat 500 shows the future of mobility, as well as paying homage to classic motoring.
Fiat Stellantis

Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want a fully electric version of the cute Fiat 500? Now is the perfect time to get behind the wheel of one, especially as it’s also one of the cheapest EVs on the market today. Its range is anywhere between 100 and 200 kilometers on a single charge, similar to most competitors.

The base 500e fitted with a small 24kWh battery pack starts at around $26 000 (€23 500). Buyers can also choose to upgrade to a larger 42kWh powertrain, starting at roughly $30 500 (€27 500).

3. Renault Twingo Electric- $25 000

An electric Renault Twingo is the third cheapest electric vehicle available in Europe.
Renault Media Website

An electric Twingo is another fun compact that doubles as one of the cheapest electric cars on the market today. Its small size makes it the perfect pick for commuting around the city, as opposed to cross-country road trips. Pricing starts at around $25 000 (€22 500) in France and fluctuates slightly throughout European markets. The model is not available in the US.

The range can vary anywhere from 100 to 200 kilometers on a single charge, depending on the weather conditions and the driving style. The 2022 Twingo comes powered by a 21.3kWh battery pack.

2. Smart EQ ForFour- $21 200

Smart EQ ForFour is a small electric city car that's one of the cheapest EVs on the market.
Courtesy of Smart

As the name suggests, the ForFour is a more spacious alternative to the similarly-priced Smart ForTwo. Smart’s electric four-seater gets up to 150km on a single charge. Though it may not be enough for a road trip, such a range is ideal for the daily commute within the city. Especially when making the most of top-up charging.

Sadly, the model is no longer sold in the United States. Back in 2019, a brand new ForTwo Electric Drive started at around $24 000 in the US. Buyers in Europe can currently pick a brand new one up for around $21 000, or €19 000.

1. Dacia Spring- $21 000 (Cheapest Electric Car In Europe)

Dacia Spring EV is the cheapest new electric car available for sale in Europe.
Dacia Media Website

This is it- the cheapest new electric car money can buy. You can drive off the lot in a brand new Dacia Spring EV for as little as $21 000 (€19 000) depending on where you buy it. It’s no surprise that the Romanian automaker reached 40 000 orders within 8 months of launching this affordable model.

Dacia is a Romanian automaker that’s a part of the Renault Group. The Spring has a range of over 250km on a single charge, though it can fluctuate quite a bit based on the weather conditions. The Dacia Spring is not available in the United States.

Bonus- Rent An Electric Car!

Renting an electric car can be a great way to stay eco-friendly when traveling, or simply find out first-hand why so many drivers switch to EVs.

Rentalmoose offers both electric and hybrids across some of the 15 000+ locations worldwide. Simply tick the GoGreen filters to freely browse through EVs and hybrids.

8 Of The Most Expensive Electric Cars Money Can Buy

Electric cars are well on their way to becoming the future of mobility. While many automakers attempt to lower the pricing of their models to make EVs more accessible, others focus on producing high-end cars offered at jaw-dropping price tags. Some are limited to just a few units worldwide, hence the most expensive electric car may not be what you expect!

Note that we have only added cars with fully electric drivetrains. PHEVs and other types of hybrids are not added to this list.

We’ve also broken down this blog post into the following sections, leading up to reveal the world’s most expensive electric car. Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section and find out how much each car costs.

The 8 Most Expensive Electric Cars Of All Time

Without further ado, let’s jump right in!

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive- $544 000

The Mercedes Benz SLS AMG electric drive is one of the most expensive electric cars in the world. Only a few units were made.
© Daimler AG

Mercedes-Benz unveiled this fully electric variant of the SLS AMG supercar back in 2013. We can safely say that it was way ahead of its time. The SLS AMG Electric Drive came powered by a quad-motor powertrain, rated at 740 horsepower in total. As a result, this car can accelerate to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds!

The single-charge range of this electric supercar is 250 kilometers (160 miles) thanks to its 60kWh battery pack. That is more than double what most competitors offered at the time.

The German automaker built less than 100 units in total, valued at roughly half a million dollars (€450 000) each. This rare gem is worth even more money today.

Genovation GXE- $750 000

Genovation GXE is an expensive electric supercar based on the Chevrolet Corvette C7.
Courtesy of Genovation Cars

If you’re looking for ultimate performance, it doesn’t really get any better than this. The Genovation GXE is essentially a seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette transformed into a fully electric record-breaking supercar. The GXE also doubles as one of the most expensive electric cars of all time.

This 800-horsepower monster has gone down in history as the first electric car to surpass 200 miles per hour (320 km/h). In fact, its top speed is over 211mph (337km/h)!

The production of the GXE is strictly limited to just 75 units worldwide, each one worth over $750 000 (€680 000).

Rimac Automobili Concept One- $1 000 000+

Rimac Concept One is one of the most expensive electric supercars on the planet, worth over one million dollars.
Rimac Media Gallery

This Croatian automaker may have only been around for a little over a decade, but Rimac has quickly risen to fame. The Concept One was the brand’s first EV developed from the ground up. It’s extremely impressive, to say the least. Four electric motors power the Concept One. As a result, this electric supercar can reach 60 miles per hour in an astounding 2.8 seconds.

Only 8 examples were built, one of which was totaled by TV star Richard Hammond while filming an episode of the Grand Tour. That’s right, this show host is responsible for crashing what was probably the most expensive electric car at the time. Every one of the remaining 7 units is worth at least a million dollars (€910 000).

NIO EP9- $1 200 000

NIO EP9 is a fully electric supercar built by Chinese automaker Nio.
Courtesy of NIO

There’s a pretty good chance that anyone interested in high-performance cars has heard about this beauty. The Nio EP9 made headlines back in 2017, as this fully electric supercar broke the world record at the infamous Nurburgring racetrack in Germany. As a matter of fact, this car lapped the Nordschleife loop in a jaw-dropping 6 minutes and 45 seconds!

Each one of the car’s four motors makes a little over 335 horsepower, raising the total power output to nearly 1350 horses. The production run is limited to just 16 units worldwide. Oh, and this beauty isn’t even street legal. Owners can only drive their EP9s at the local race track.

Rimac Nevera- $2 500 000

Rimac is a croatian automaker known for the nevara- an EV supercar that doubles as one of the most expensive electric cars in the world.
Rimac Media Gallery

After releasing the previously mentioned Concept One, the journey of Croatian automaker Rimac was far from over. Back in 2021, Rimac unveiled the Nevera supercar- the fastest and most expensive electric car crafted by the company.

A 1914-horsepower quad-motor electric drivetrain powers the Nevera. The car entered production back in 2021, with a short production run limited to just 150 units worldwide. The price tag of the Nevera is equally astonishing as its performance- a brand new unit will cost roughly $2 500 000 (€2.27mln).

Lotus Evija- $2 600 000

Lotus Evija is a recently-unveiled electric supercar, one of the world's most expensive electric cars.
Courtesy of Lotus Media Site

Lotus has always had a reputation for being one of the most innovative automakers in the world. After all, the brand arguably rose to fame after releasing the Elise. The Lotus Elise remains one of the best performance-oriented picks within its price range. The recently-unveiled Evija is in a whole different league, though.

At the time of its debut, the Evija was the world’s most powerful production car rated at 2000 horsepower. Its price tag is equally impressive. This electric supercar will set you back around $2.6 million (€2.37mln). The production run is limited to just 130 units in total, and all slots are reportedly sold out.

Pininfarina Battista Anniversario- $2 900 000

Pininfarina Battista Anniversario is an electric supercar limited to just 5 units worldwide.
Courtesy of Pininfarina

Pininfarina is a legendary Italian coachbuilder and car design company. Designers from Pininfarina are responsible for designing some of the world’s most famous autos, including Ferraris, Alfa Romeos, or Lancias. Now, the company is making its very own electric supercar. It comes powered by a monstrous 1900 horsepower drivetrain. As a result, the Battista Anniversario is capable of a sprint to 100km/h in under 2 seconds.

Make no mistake, the regular Pininfarina Battista is already quite a special vehicle. Out of the 150 Battistas produced in total, only 5 will be made in the Anniversario trim level. Each one valued at $2 900 000 (€2.64mln).

Aspark Owl- $3 500 000

Aspark Owl is the most expensive electric car of all time- valued at over 3.5 million USD.
Aspark Press Material

Most of us wanted to own a spaceship back when we were kids, or at least a car that resembled one. Now, thanks to a small Japanese automaker, that dream is closer to reality than ever before.

The Aspark Owl is easily one of the craziest looking cars of all time. The exterior of was designed with peak performance and aerodynamics in mind, and it shows. The car’s drivetrain rated at over 1900 horses is worth mentioning, too. The Owl’s gigantic $3 500 000 (€3.2mln)price tag is easily its most impressive feature, though. This is the world’s most expensive electric car of all time, excluding crazy one-offs and concepts that were never available for buyers to begin with.

Aspark has reportedly already sold out all available slots. If you’re in the market for an Owl, you’ll have to wait for a couple of years. If a used one ever pops up on the market in the first place, that is.

Hybrid vs Electric Cars- How Are They Different?

Audi plug-in hybrid car lineup. Hybrid vs electric cars is an ongoing debate among those in favor of green mobility.
Audi MediaCenter

Want to get behind the wheel of a hybrid, PHEV, or EV, but don’t know where to start? We’re here to help! Find out the difference between a hybrid vs electric cars, as well as PHEVs, and decide which one is best for you.

There are many reasons why you should start driving an EV, PHEV, or a regular hybrid. These vehicles are not only better for the environment, but can also quickly prove to be more fuel efficient and convenient. Not to mention their outstanding performance!

Let’s get back to basics, however, and distinguish the key differences between a PHEV, EV, and a hybrid.

We’ve broken this guide down into the following sections to make navigation easier. Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section.

Plug-in Hybrid, Hybrid, and Electric Cars- The Basics

Generally speaking, hybrids and electric cars can be broken down into three types: PHEV or plug-in hybrids, hybrids, and EVs or fully electric cars. The key difference between all three being the drivetrain itself.

Plug-in Hybrids or PHEVs

PHEVs, also known as plug-in hybrids, have gained lots of popularity in the last years. One could even argue that they provide the perfect balance between gas and electric drivetrains. A PHEV features a regular gas-powered motor combined with an electric battery pack. Most can be driven in electric mode, though the fully-electric range is typically under 100 kilometers (60 miles).

As the name suggests, you can plug an PHEV to charge it. The ability to charge at home is extremely convenient and cost-efficient, especially for short trips. Longer trips may require the use of the car’s gas powerplant.

Hybrids

The drivetrain that powers a hybrid is virtually the same as the one found in a PHEV. Hybrid cars rely on the car’s gas engine as well as an electric drivetrain. Regular hybrids, however, typically have an electric motor that’s much smaller than the ones found in plug-ins.

As a result, regular hybrids aren’t able to drive anywhere near as far using electricity. In fact, some hybrids cannot be driven in fully electric mode at all!

Another difference between regular hybrids and PHEVs is the charging. Ever wondered how a regular hybrid charges the electric powertrain, since it cannot be plugged into external charges? In reality, hybrids are charged through regenerative braking, as well as help from the internal combustion engine.

Electric Cars or EVs

Electric cars are powered purely by electricity. Unlike PHEVs and hybrids, EVs do not have an internal combustion engine at all.

One of the key perks of driving an electric car is the fact that you can charge it for free at home. Since an EV is only powered by its electric drivetrain, the batteries are larger than the ones found in PHEVs.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look into the key differences between these car types!

Impact On The Environment

Naturally, electric cars take the cake here. This is all because, unlike PHEVs and hybrids, electric cars do not have an internal combustion engine at all. As a result, they do not burn any fossil fuels. While both PHEVs and hybrids generate some pollution, the figures are a lot lower than regular gas-powered cars.

Let’s not forget that the transportation industry is the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the US (source). Swapping your gas-powered vehicle for an electric car can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint and positively impact the envrionment.

Did you know you can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint while traveling? Use the GoGreen filters when browsing rental cars at Rentalmoose. That way, you will be able to filter only EVs and plug-ins. In addition, we plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!

Cost Efficiency

Curious about hybrid vs electric cars when it comes to cost efficiency? It should come as no surprise that electric cars remain the most cost efficient to drive. After all, EV owners can charge their vehicles at home, or make the most of extensive charging networks worldwide. Many chargers are free to use, too.

Since plug-in hybrids can be charged at home just like EVs, they can be equally cost efficient. It all boils down to how much of the driving is done in the car’s fully electric mode. If the car remains in electric mode only, it can be just as inexpensive to drive as an EV. This is not possible with regular hybrids that require support from the gas motor at all times.

It’s also crucial to note that even if a plug-in hybrid is only driven in electric mode, it’s highly recommended to have some gas in the tank. Driving a PHEV with no fuel in the gas tank can cause irreversible damage to the vehicle!

Range

Automakers have continuously been increasing the range of their electric vehicles for the past years. This is a much needed step to convince more buyers to go either fully electric or switch to a hybrid or a PHEV.

According to a report by InsideEVs, the median electric car range has surpassed 250 miles (400km) in 2020. In comparison, that same figure was at under 100 miles (160km) just 5 years earlier. It can safely be assumed that this number will only continue going up in the next years.

If you’re planning to go on a long road trip, a plug-in hybrid may be the best pick. Strictly when it comes to range, that is. That brings us to the next point.

Charging Time

This is unarguably one of the most controversial points about driving EVs and plug-in hybrids. The truth is that, even with the introduction of fast superchargers, it still takes at least half an hour to charge an EV. That’s why plug-ins are simply the most convenient, at least in terms of the charging time. After all, you can simply fill up the gas tank and be on your way in just a few minutes.

The reality is that having to stop for at least half an hour for every few hours of driving isn’t too convenient. Especially considering that a gas-powered car can be filled up in just a couple minutes. Charging your electric car using a regular wall socket can take well over half a day.

Audi Q5 charging. Hybrid vs electric cars- which is best and what are the differences? The charging time is one of the key benefits of a PHEV over an EV.
Audi MediaCenter

For this very reason, most owners of EVs and plug-in hybrids prefer top-up charging. Instead of waiting for the battery to run out completely, EV owners prefer to tup the car up at work or overnight. The same way you’d charge your phone- most of us plug it in at night no matter if the battery is completely empty or not. That way, you can make sure that your vehicle is always charged when you need it.

Plug-in hybrids tend to have a much shorter range than EVs. A 2021 Audi Q5 plug-in, for example, has a range of just 20 miles in fully electric mode. While this can be enough for the daily commute, it won’t cut it for longer trips.

Charging time is not applicable at all when it comes to regular hybrids, however. As we already mentioned, they are charged through regenerative braking and/or the car’s gas engine. No external charging needed here!

Performance

You have probably heard that electric cars are famous for their physcis-defying acceleration. The Tesla Model S Plaid is powered by a monstrous electric drivetrain rated at over 1 000 horsepower. As a result, it can accelerate to 60 miles per hour (a little under 100km/h) in less than 2 seconds, making it the quickest EV as well as the quickest production car ever. That’s nearly a second quicker than a Lamborghini Huracan EVO, too.

The reason why modern electric cars are absurdly quick is actually quite simple. Electric powerplants are able to generate a lot of power virtually instantly. This means that the driver can access all the car’s power as soon as they put the pedal to the metal. In comparison, an internal combustion engine does require some time to reach peak power.

In terms of performance, it really is a no-brainer. Electric cars are the clear winner, followed by PHEVs and then hybrids.

Hybrid vs Electric Cars- Which One Is Best

It really depends. As you can see, there’s a variety of different factors that you need to consider before deciding whether to use an EV, PHEV, or hybrid. While a PHEV may be tempting for the daily commute, the 250mile+ median range of an EV can be the better pick for a long trip.

The choice between hybrid vs electric cars boils down to personal preference, as well as how much you value of the factors mentioned above.

Don’t forget to book your next EV/PHEV/Hybrid via Rentalmoose. Check out our platform to browse rental cars at over 15 000 locations worldwide. You can also tick the GoGreen checkbox to filter only electric and plug-in hybrids. Reduce your carbon footprint when traveling by car with Rentalmoose.

We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!

How Long Does It Take To Charge An Electric Car?

Blonde woman charging Jaguar electric car with a level 2 charging point- which is one of the quickest ways to charge an electric car.

Different types of electric car charging points nad kW ratings may seem a little overwhelming at first. Naturally, you’ll want to know how long it takes to charge an electric car before hopping behind the wheel of one.

No matter whether you’ve never driven an electric car before, or simply wonder what the different ways of charging an electric car are, this quick guide is for you!

For maximum convenience, this blog post is broken down into 5 different sections. Click the links below to quickly jump between relevant parts of the article.

How Long Does It Take To Charge An Electric Car

To be completely honest, it depends on a few different factors. Charging an electric car can take as little as 20 minutes, or as long as an entire day in worst cases. What causes these figures to be so far apart? Continue reading to find out.

What Affects The Charging Speed of An EV

The time it takes to charge an EV all boils down to just 5 different factors:

  1. Battery Size- a larger battery pack will take more time to charge than a small one.
  2. Charge Level- naturally, the less charge your battery has the longer it will take to fill up
  3. Maximum Charging Speed Of The Car- some electric cars will charge faster than others. Most EVs are able to utilize rapid charging points, unlike plug-in hybrids. Make sure that the maximum speed of the charger is either equal or larger than the rate of the eletric car.
  4. Maximum Charging Speed Of The Charger- this is just as important as the maximum charging speed of your EV. For example, a Tesla Model 3 can gain up to 330 miles (530km) of range in just 30 minutes of charging. However, that can only happen when the car is plugged into a 150kW rapid charger. A slower charger will restrict the maximum charging speed, even if the car itself is capable of charging at a faster rate.
  5. Outside temperature- you probably noticed that your phone’s battery does not perform well in the cold. The same goes for electric cars and their batteries. The range of an EV will be reduced in cold weather, and the charging time may be extended too.

Can You Charge An Electric Car At Home?

Yes! One of the great things about driving an electric car is that you can charge it right at home. Virtually all EVs come with adapters that let owners charge them from regular outlets.

Note that using your regular power plug is the least efficient way to charge your electric car. An EV may gain just a couple of miles of range per every hour of charging this way. In practice, this means that fully recharging the battery pack may take over a day, depending on the battery capacity. Nonetheless, it’s still a great way of top up charging an EV. What does that mean exactly?

Top Up Charging Explained

As the name suggests, top up charging is all about topping up the battery whenever possible. It proved to be more convenient for owners of electric cars, as opposed to only charging the car after letting the battery run out.

For example, an EV owner will often charge their car at the garage overnight or at their workplace, regardless whether the battery is empty or not. Continuously topping up the battery, as opposed to only charging it after it runs out all the way, is top up charging. Slower charging points are ideal for this.

Different Types Of Electric Car Chargers

As we have already mentioned, there are a few different types of electric car charging points. We can sort them by their maximum charging speed. Let’s start with the slowest one, which is a regular power plug.

Charging At Home- Level 1 Charging (The Slowest Option)

Range- roughly 5 miles (8km) / hour

Charging at home using a conventional socket is great for top up charging, or whenever you want to gain a bit of range over the course of a few hours. Afterall, it’s quite convenient to increase the range of your electric car if it’s going to be parked in one spot either way. It is, however, the slowest way to increase the range of an EV.

If the battery on your EV is completely drained though, you may want to reconsider charging the car using a standard plug at home. It can take well over a day to fully recharge, especially if the battery has a high capacity.

Luckily, there is a way more efficient solution for charging your EV at home!

Charging At Home & Public Stations-Level 2 Charging

Range- up to 40 miles (65km) / hour

Charging at home using a dedicated wallbox is a lot more convenient than a regular plug. You can expect to gain up to 40 miles, or 65 kilometers, of range per hour. An EV left to charge overnight is guaranteed to be topped up in the morning.

Many public charging stations utilize this type of connection, rated at between 6 and 20 kW.

The only downside is that a wallbox has got to be professionally installed at your home. If you’re on the go in a rental electric car, you can always double-check whether the hotel you’re staying at offers a level 2 charging point.

Fun fact: Tesla offers one of the most efficient charge-at-home wallboxes on the market. A 22kW home charger that comes with the Model 3 is able to add as much as 40 miles (65km) of range per hour!

Rapid Charging- Level 3

Range- fully charged in around an hour

Level 3 charging points are as close as EVs can get to gas-powered cars in terms of the filling-up time. A drained electric car battery should take no longer than an hour to become fully recharged. Level 3 charging stations are rated at anywhere between 50kW and 350kW. Naturally, the latter will charge even quicker.

If you drive one of the latest Tesla cars, however, there is an alternative that’s even quicker.

Tesla Superchargers (Also Level 3)

Range- fully charged in 40 minutes

Tesla Superchargers are undoubtedly the quickest way to fill up an electric car so far. It takes just 40 minutes to go from a drained battery to a full one. Most Superchargers deployed today are rated at between 150kW and 350kW, though even more powerful ones are expected to roll out in the near future.

Can non-Tesla electric cars use Superchargers?

Yes! Tesla recently made Superchargers available to other makes and models. That’s right, the network of 30 000+ Superchargers worldwide can be accessed by EVs of all kinds, and not just Tesla products.

Check the official website for more details. All you need to do to access a Supercharger in a non-Tesla EV is download the Tesla app.

BONUS- Rent An Electric Car

Curious to see what it’s like to drive an electric car? Look no further!

Go to Rentalmoose and browse rental cars in over 15 000 locations worldwide. Select the GoGreen filters to see EVs and plug-in hybrids in your desired location.

We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.

What Is An Estate Car- Rental Car Basics

the bmw 330e is a perfect example of an estate car, often also called a station wagon.
BMW Press

Keeping up with all the different car types can be difficult at times. After all, rental companies offer roughly 20 different types of cars to choose from! Find out what to expect when booking an estate rental car, also known as a station wagon.

Click one of the links below to quickly jump between different sections of this blog post.

What Is An Estate Car

An estate car is essentially a sedan with an extended roof line and a hatchback trunk. Access to the rear space is possible through the rear doors, as opposed to the trunk lid. In addition, most station wagons feature rear seats that fold down. That way, you can decide whether you need more cargo space or room for additional passengers.

Believe it or not, it’s surprisingly easy to distinguish an estate car from other types of cars, all thanks to their unique design. An estate car features A, B, C and D pillars in its design.

Every single estate rental car will have the following:

  • space for four or five passengers
  • a spacious hatchback trunk
  • similar to a BMW 3 Series Touring

Estate Rental Cars-Sub Categories

Many rental companies break down their estate fleets further. Check out the following sub-categories of estate rental cars you can often come across.

Compact

As the name suggests, compact estate cars are slightly smaller in size. This can be a Toyota Auris STW, for example.

Full-Size

Full-size estate cars are going to be the biggest ones, providing more space for cargo and passengers. This can include cars such as the station wagon variant of an Audi A4.

Luxury

Luxury comes at a higher price, and luxury estate rental cars are no different. Expect to pay more for a station wagon Mercedes-Benz or an upscale Audi A6, as opposed to a more budget-friendly alternative.

Crossovers and MPVs

Some rental companies will also consider large crossover SUVs and MPVs in the estate category. If that’s the case, you can expect to receive a Toyota RAV4 or a Ford Galaxy.

Is An Estate Car The Same As A Station Wagon

Yes. An estate car is exactly the same as a station wagon. Most rental companies in the United States will refer to this type of vehicle as a (station) wagon. In the United Kingdom, they’re called a station wagon.

Examples Of Estate Cars

As mentioned above, estate cars can easily be identified by their unique body style. When booking an estate rental car, you can expect to pick up one of the following vehicles:

  • BMW 3 Series Touring
  • BMW 5 Series Touring
  • Volkswagen Passat Estate
  • Audi A6
  • Audi A4 Estate
  • Toyota RAV4
  • Skoda Octavia Estate
  • Ford Focus Estate
  • Citroen C4 Picasso
  • Toyota Auris STW
  • Seat Leon ST
  • Opel Insignia Touring
  • Kia Ceed Estate
  • Ford Galaxy
  • Volvo V70 EState
  • Vauxhall Zafira

When It’s Best To Book An Estate Car

A quick glance at one of these cars is enough to understand that they’re all about space. That’s why they’re ideal whenever you need to fit up to 5 occupants along with their luggage.

Travel comfortably with the entire family for hours on end in a luxury estate, or book a compact estate to take your friends around town.

You can also fold down the rear seats. Then, you’ll end up with a two-seater and plenty of cargo space. Perfect for transporting a large piece of furniture, for example.

Learn More About Your Rental Car Type

You may not be aware that you only book a vehicle type, and not a particular make and model. That’s why you’ll see the words “or similar” next to every vehicle offered by rental companies. What does that mean exactly?

As rental companies’ fleets are constantly changing, it’s difficult for suppliers to predict which exact vehicles will be available at each location.

That’s why rental companies use a four-character code- called ACRISS- to classify their entire fleets.

You can check out our guide to ACRISS codes to learn more about rental car types. That way, you’ll always be prepared beforehand.

Don’t forget to book your next rental car through RentalmooseOur platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.


We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.

The 14 Best Things To Do In Cancun With Kids

Cancun has become one of the hottest travel destinations within the last years. It’s the ideal spot for bachelors, party animals, as well as families with kids.

These are 14 of our favorite things to do in Cancun with kids. All of the activities listed above are kid-friendly and ideal for days of family fun!

Fun Things To Do In Cancun’s Hotel Zone

Discover Mayan Ruins- El Rey and El Meco

Visiting Mayan Ruins should be on the itinerary of every traveler visiting Mexico, no matter how old they are. These ancient sites date back thousands of years and are a crucial part of the local culture.

There are two major Mayan archeological sites in Cancun: El Rey and El Meco. Both of them are worth visiting!

El Rey Ruins

While the sites in Tulum and Chichen-Itza are among the most famous in the entire country, the long drive may not be ideal for families with kids. Don’t worry, as the El Rey Mayan ruins are located within Cancun itself!

El Rey ruins are located within the southern part of the Hotel Zone, near the famous Playa Delfines. Admission costs just 50 pesos per person.

El Meco Ruins

El Meco Archeological site is just a few minutes out of Cancun. Like the El Rey Ruins, admission to El Meco costs just 50 pesos per person.

Note: El Meco Archeological Site is temporarily closed.

Beach Day At Playa Delfines

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Cancun’s busy Hotel Zone, Playa Delfines is the perfect place to go. This sandy beach is truly spectacular, and it lays just a few miles south of all the resorts. It’s much quieter and more laid-back as opposed to the beaches at the Hotel Zone itself.

This gorgeous public beach stretches for miles, making it the perfect spot to unwind for a few hours. Go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or sunbathe for hours on end. Oh, and the soft sand is ideal for building sandcastles, too!

Keep an eye on the horizon. If you’re lucky, you may just spot a dolphin or two.

Go On A Pirate Dinner Cruise

Did you know that your entire family can feel like pirates during a very special themed cruise? Captain Hook offers dinner cruises on an impressive pirate ship. Set sail right from the Hotel Zone, dine on a pirate ship, and enjoy the entertainment.

This unique experience is quite pricey, though. Expect to pay around $US100 per adult. Children tickets are available at discounted rates.

Pirate dinner cruises are available 7 days a week from different operators throughout Cancun.

Hang Out At A Theme Park- Ventura Park

Ventura Park is an adventure-packed theme park ideal for the entire family. From go-karts to waterslides and rollercoasters, this place really has it all.

You can make the most of the park’s waterslides, ziplines, or race go-karts right by the ocean. There’s an indoor state-of-the-art virtual reality arcade, too.

There are lots of attractions here, so it’s best to plan a trip to Ventura Park for the entire day. Tickets start at around US$30 and go up all the way to $70, depending on the attractions you pick.

Check Out The Interactive Aquarium

Not only is a visit to the Interactive Aquarium one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids, but it also doubles as one of the best indoor activities in town. As a result, it’s the perfect attraction to drop by on a rainy day!

The Interactive Aquarium Cancun is conveniently located within the La Isla Shopping Village, right in the middle of the Hotel Zone. Inside, you can admire exotic marine life and learn all about the fascinating underwater world.

The fact that the aquarium is super interactive makes it the perfect spot for families with kids.

Expect to spend at least half an hour to tour the Aquarium. Oh, be sure to drop by the gift shop afterward.

The Cancun Interactive Aquarium is open daily between 9AM and 8PM.

Things To Do In Cancun With Kids

Explore Cenotes

Cenotes are one of the most popular attractions among tourists who visit Mexico. A cenote is a natural sinkhole filled with water. They’re scattered all over the Yucatan Peninsula, and a couple breathtaking ones are within a short drive from Cancun.

Cenote Azul- The Best Cenote Near Cancun

This attraction is a little over an hour out of Cancun. However, it is most certainly well worth the drive!

Cenote Azul is perhaps the most impressive cenote in this part of the Yucatan Peninsula. Guests can swim in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of two different swimming areas. Thrill-seekers can plunge into the cenote from the cliff diving site, too.

Expect to pay roughly 120 pesos per person for admission.

Extra tip: Consider driving down to Tulum to explore even more spectacular cenotes! And don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Tulum while you’re there.

Hop On A Ferry To Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a real oasis located a quick 15-minute ferry ride away from Cancun itself. This island is home to some truly spectacular sandy beaches and trendy eateries waiting to be explored. There are a couple of spots ideal for snorkeling, too.

Once you’re on Isla Mujeres, you can rent a golf cart to thoroughly explore all of what the island has got to offer.

You can catch a ferry from the Puerto Juarez pier, located just outside of the heart of Cancun.

Ferries depart every 30 minutes between 5AM and 9PM.

Relax At Parque de Las Palapas

Parque de Las Palapas serves as the booming heart of local life here in Cancun. It’s the perfect spot to grasp some of the local life, as opposed to the tourist-oriented Hotel Zone.

Parque de Las Palapas is more than just your average downtown park, though. There’s plenty of stalls to try out local specialties and purchase hand-made products. You can play a game of soccer, or simply unwind and enjoy the sunset.

There’s always something to do at Parque de Las Palapas, especially on sunny weekend afternoons. You can enjoy live performances and really dive into the local life here. Be sure to drop by!

Day Trip To Xcaret

Xcaret is an adventure park located roughly halfway between Cancun and Tulum, near Playa del Carmen. The drive there will take around an hour each way. At first, you may think that this is yet another Adventure Park. This could not be further from the truth, though.

Unlike most amusement parks in this part of Mexico, Xcaret is an archeological park that celebrates Mexican and Mayan cultures. Guests can choose from tens of different activities, including swimming with dolphins and other marine life, go on a speedboat tour, snorkel, or encounter stingrays.

In the meantime, the adults can unwind at the spa, or go for a romantic wine pairing session at the local wine cellar. The activities are curated for guests of all ages!

Adventure-Packed Day at Selvatica

This is yet another great adventure park located near Cancun. Selvatica is famous for their thrilling Polaris ATV tours through the Mexican wilderness. That’s far from the only activity here, though.

A wide array of attractions make Selvatica Adventure Park one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids by a long shot. Visitors can zipline head-first through the jungle, for example. Believe it or not, it’s not quite as scary as it sounds!

Let’s not forget bungee jumping, ziplining into a cenote, and the famous off-roading tours either. You can check out all of the activities at Selvatica’s official website.

Note that children need to be at least 8 years old to participate in one of the tours at Selvatica. Families with younger kids may want to skip this spot.

Pricing starts at $US99 all the way to $199, depending on the tour you select.

Go On A Road Trip

Road trips are one of the best ways to bond as a family. In addition, a road trip around Mexico is the perfect way to see just how diverse this beautiful country is.

Check out our curated travel guide and plan your perfect road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula. Expect to see ancient Mayan ruins, impressive cliffs, and cute towns along the way.

Best Things To Do In Cancun When It Rains

VR Arcade at Ventura Park

We already wrote about Ventura Park, as we consider it to be one of the best spots to visit in Cancun with kids overall. Their high-tech virtual-reality arcade, however, is another great attraction in its own right.

This part of Ventura Park is fully enclosed, making it the perfect destination for a rainy day in Cancun.

Visit Museo Maya de Cancun

The Mayan Museum of Cancun is the go-to spot to find out more about the fascinating Mayan culture. Unlike the nearby Mayan ruins of El Rey and El Meco, this attraction is fully indoors. That’s why it’s best to save it for a rainy day.

Guests of all ages can discover Mayan culture within Museo Maya de Cancun. There are loads of precious artefacts displayed within the museum, which is already an architectural gem by itself.

Admission will set you back 80 pesos per person.

Shopping Spree At Plaza Las Americas

A shopping mall may not be your first pick when looking for things to do in Cancun. A day at Plaza Las Americas is, however, quite a solid way to spend a rainy day.

Aside from around 200 retail stores, Plaza Las Americas also boasts a food court and a large cinema. Catching a movie followed by a not-so-healthy lunch is indeed a great plan B for a rainy day, just in case.

Plaza Las Americas is open 7 days a week from 10AM to 10PM (8PM on Saturdays).

Bonus- Rent A Car in Cancun

Unsure whether to book your rental car in Mexico? Be sure to check out Rentalmoose. We’re a global car rental broker that serves over 15 000 locations worldwide.

We only offer rental cars from trusted and verified suppliers.

Driving In Mexico- A Complete Tourist Guide

Driving in Mexico can seem a little overwhelming at first. Check out our comprehensive guide, ideal for those who are planning to drive in Mexico!

There is so much to see in Mexico. Wonderful attractions, such as ancient Mayan ruins, are scattered all over the country. If you’re planning to make the most of your trip, the best way is to travel within the country by car. That way, you can freely move between different cities and regions in Mexico.

A Comprehensive Tourist Guide To Driving In Mexico

Can Foreigners Drive in Mexico

Yes! International tourists are permitted to drive in Mexico. Naturally, you have to meet the local laws to be eligible to drive here. In practice, this means the following.

You need to have a valid driving license. You only need an International Driving Permit if your domestic license is not in English. If your license is only in Japanese, for example, you’ll need to obtain an IDP.

Can You Drive In Mexico With A US License

Yes! As mentioned above, you can drive in Mexico with a foreign driving license as long as it’s in English. If you own a US-issued driving license, you can freely use it when driving in Mexico.

Requirements To Rent A Car in Mexico

If you’re planning to travel between different cities in Mexico, it’s best to rent a car for your trip. You can use Rentalmoose to browse through rental cars across over 15 000 locations worldwide. We only offer cars from trusted & verified suppliers.

Rentalmoose insider tip: Renting a car in Mexico? Don’t forget about proper insurance! Your credit card insurance may not provide coverage in Mexico.

The minimum age to rent a car in Mexico is 21. Drivers between 21 and 25 years will likely be charged with a young driver fee. This daily fee will be added on top of your rental quote.

In addition, most rental companies will require the renter to have at least 2 years of driving experience. This is verified by the issue date on your license.

The vast majority of rental companies in Mexico will require a credit card issued under the renter’s name. Debit cards are often not accepted.

Is It Safe To Drive in Mexico

To be completely honest, that depends. Safety remains a concern for many international tourists visiting Mexico. Tourist areas such as Cancun are perfectly safe. The same goes for the vast majority of the country. Drug violence remains a serious problem in the country, and it’s best to stay up to date on local news.

There are some areas that are not recommended to visit, such as Toluca Highway. It’s often referred to by locals as the carretera de la muerte, which translates to the Highway of Death. The name is pretty self-explanatory. You may want to drop it from your itinerary.

That said, you should always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, just like any other country you travel to.

There is absolutely no need to freak out. You can find some helpful tips for driving in Mexico below.

Tips For Tourists Driving in Mexico

Check out the information below to prepare you to drive in Mexico for the first time.

  • Stay vigilant
  • Avoid driving at night
  • Take cuotas (toll roads)
  • Look out for topes

Stay Vigilant

Naturally, you always want to be vigilant and fully aware of your surroundings when traveling abroad. The same goes for driving in Mexico. There is absolutely no need to panic and freak out that something bad will happen.

Simply stay aware of what’s going on around you at all times. Just like you would anywhere else.

Avoid Driving At Night

A couple of decades ago, this piece of advice would refer to banditos- local gangsters who would rob drivers, especially in remote areas during the night. Over the last years, the number of banditos has dramatically decreased.

The main reason you should drive in Mexico during the day is actually the quality of roads. Major toll roads (we’ll get to those in a second) are well-paved. The same cannot be said about side roads, especially in remote parts of the country.

If you do happen to break down in the middle of nowhere, you may have to wait until daytime for assistance to arrive. That’s why it’s best to simply avoid driving at night altogether.

Take Cuotas, or Toll Roads

At first, you may think that this is related to banditos or drug-related violence, like the advice to drive during the day. However, it’s recommended to stick to cuotas, or toll roads, due to the quality of roads. Cuotas tend to be well-paved, unlike minor streets. The difference is even more apparent in poorer regions of Mexico.

Look Out For Topes

Topes are speed bumps. They can be found all over Mexico, especially on busy highways and in big cities. You may expect speed bumps to be painted in bright yellow to ensure they’re visible. That’s not exactly the case.

In reality, many topes remain completely unmarked. As a result, they’re very difficult to see. Some topes are built by locals, hence seeing them is even more challenging. If you hit one going too fast, you may require roadside assistance. Look out for topes!

Know The Traffic Laws When Driving in Mexico

This is an absolute no-brainer. Be familiar with the traffic laws in Mexico, both the official ones as well as the unwritten ones. Let’s go over both of them.

Mexico Official Traffic Laws

  • The legal driving age in Mexico is 18
  • Every occupant in a car needs to have seatbelts on
  • Drink-driving is a crime. The legal limit is 0.08%
  • Using a phone while driving is forbidden, unless with a hands-free kit
  • Left-hand highway exits- Highways in Mexico have areas where drivers can safely stop and make a u-turn past their desired exit
  • Call 911 in case of emergency
  • Call 074 for roadside assistance- Los Angeles Verdes (more on that below)

Speed Limits in Mexico

  • Urban Areas- 40km/h
  • Open Roads Outside Urban Areas- 80km/h
  • Highways- 100-110km/h

First and foremost, be familiar with the official laws as well as the speed limits.

Unwritten Traffic Rules in Mexico

  • An oncoming vehicle flashing their headlights at you is a warning to slow down. The first vehicle to flash their lights has the right of way. If someone is flashing their headlights, you are expected to yield
  • Left turn signals can mean one of three things- the car in front is turning left, letting you know that there is space to overtake, or taking the right-hand side exit to then make a left
  • It is common to drive on the shoulder to make more space for overtaking vehicles. Expect to see overtaking vehicles on your lane, and use the shoulder to accommodate them
  • As mentioned above, many speedbumps are hard to see. Drive cautiously

Los Angeles Verdes- Roadside Assistance in Mexico

Knowing this is crucial for any tourist driving in Mexico. Los Angeles Verdes, or the Green Angels, are a fleet of green-colored trucks that provide roadside assistance. The personnel speak both Spanish and English, and will be able to get you back on the road in no time.

You can reach Los Angeles Verdes at 074, a 24-hour toll-free number. It’s best to write this phone number down, just in case.

Note that Los Angeles Verdes only operate in the daytime and on major highways. This is yet another reason why you should avoid driving in Mexico at night and stick to toll roads.

Road Trip in Mexico- Travel Ideas

Mexico is full of fascinating places to visit, and going on a road trip is one of the best ways to see the country!

Road Trip Around The Yucatan Peninsula

This is by far our favorite road trip itinerary in all of Mexico. You set off in dreamy Cancun, and then drive south via Tulum and through to San Cristobal de las Casas. Then, you’ll make your way back to Cancun via the west coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.

This is a truly unforgettable road trip. Expect lots of driving in Mexico, as there’s plenty to see!

Day Trips From Mexico City

The region around Mexico City is truly fascinating. You can rent a car from the capital and go on multiple day trips, or combine them all into one grand road trip. Check out our curated travel guide.

Tulum and its Surrounding Areas

If a road trip around the entire Yucatan Peninsula is too much driving, check out our favorite things to do in and around Tulum. There’s more to Tulum than fancy resorts, and you won’t want to miss out on any of that.

Cabo San Lucas and Baja California

Cabo is a fantastic destination in its own right. Check out our travel guide on the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. We’ve included a few small road trip ideas around Baja California, too!

These Are The Best Things To Do In Tulum

Tulum is the ideal year-round destination for tourists from across the world. We’ve hand-picked 13 of our favorite attractions and wonderful things to do in Tulum.

13 Of The Best Things To Do In Tulum

Without further ado, here are our favorite attractions in and around Tulum!

Swim in A Cenote

You simply can’t skip this when in Tulum. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with water. They can be found all over the Riviera Maya. Swimming in a cenote is a bucket-list attraction for anyone visiting Mexico.

A cenote is either open, partially open, cave cenote, or underground. Be sure to visit at least one of each kind for the full experience.

Note that all guests are required to shower before entering a cenote. That’s the only way to assure that the water inside remains crystal-clear and free from pollution.

There are so many different cenotes to choose from. We have picked our three favorites that you may want to head to first.

Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote is easily one of the most popular ones in the entire country.

The water is as clear and turquoise as it gets. Going for a swim in this dreamy water, surrounded by the impressive caves, is truly unforgettable. Guests can even dive through the cave, if they dare.

It’s highly recommended to come here early in the morning to beat the crowds. Gran Cenote can get extremely crowded, especially during peak season.

Gran Cenote is 3 minutes away from Tulum.

Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos may just be the most spectacular one near Tulum. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that if you only have the time to visit one cenote- it should be Cenote Dos Ojos.

You may be surprised to hear that Cenote Dos Ojos is actually made up of two different cenotes. You can head through the main entrance and explore them both while swimming.

Cenote Dos Ojos is a short half-hour drive from downtown Tulum.

Cenote Car Wash

This cenote may not seem as spectacular as the two above. However, it’s a great place to visit and experience just how different cenotes can be. Once you’re here, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled to the middle of the jungle.

The open cenote is surrounded by lush mangroves and colorful trees. You can spot plenty of fish, turtles, and even crocodiles!

Thrill-seekers can hop in the water from a wooden platform 5 meters above the surface. This cenote is not as popular as some of the other ones in the area, hence it’s also not as crowded.

Cenote Car Wash is a quick 10-minute drive from Tulum itself.

Try Out Watersports

Any adventure junkie is going to fall in love with Tulum. There are plenty of action-packed attractions to do here, including loads of watersports to try out.

“Tulum Is Better On The Water” according to this local kitesurf rental, and it’s pretty hard to disagree. Mexican Caribbean Kitesurf offers kitesurfing lessons for beginners, experts, and anyone in between.

You can also try out foil surfing, as well as traditional surfing. Kiteboards and stand-up paddleboards can be rented, too. Oh, and you can explore cenotes on a SUP tour. What more could you possibly ask for?

Unwind At A Lavish Beach Club

A day at a beach club isn’t exactly the cheapest thing to do in Tulum. In fact, some of the pricier beach clubs here will ask you to pay around $50 to enter. Luckily, the entrance fee can often be used as credit to spend on food and drinks inside.

Coco Tulum

Coco Tulum is the place to see and be seen at. It’s favored by wealthier tourists who aren’t repelled by the cost. The minimum spend is roughly $25.

Visit Coco Tulum after dusk falls to see the beach club transform into one of the best party spots in town. Order a cocktail, listen to electronic music, and dance till you drop.

Coco Tulum is located in the Hotel Zone, a 15-minute drive south from the heart of Tulum. A car park is available directly by the beach club.

Explore Mayan Ruins In Coba

Mayan ruins are arguably the most significant landmarks in Mexico. Getting a grasp of the ancient civilization is an absolute must, and there are plenty of spots to do it around Tulum. Coba Archeological Zone is one of them.

The lack of tourists is another great part of visiting Coba. Since they’re not as accessible as the ruins in Tulum or Chichen Itza, many travelers decide to skip them. That’s a huge mistake!

Visitors have the chance to climb the ancient pyramid in Coba. Once you’re at the top, you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. It’s like a real-life Indiana Jones movie.

The drive from Tulum will take you around 45 minutes one-way. Parking is available on site, expect to pay 50MXN ($2.5).

Dive Into The Tulum Nightlife

Tulum is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, so you definitely don’t want to miss out on it. The best part? You can party 7 days a week, as there’s always something going on!

There are plenty of spots where you can experience Tulum’s nightlife. You can head to Pueblo for a more affordable experience, as opposed to the pricy Hotel Zone. Either way, you’re bound to have fun.

Some of the must-try nightlife spots around Tulum include:

  • Batey Bar (Pueblo)
  • Xibalbar (Pueblo)
  • Kiki (Pueblo)
  • Pasito Tun Tun (Pueblo)
  • Gitano (Hotel Zone)
  • Casa Jaguar (Hotel Zone)
  • I Scream Bar (Hotel Zone)
  • Coco Tulum (Hotel Zone)

Many of the local beach clubs, such as the previously mentioned Coco Tulum, also host parties after dusk falls.

Check Out The Caves At Aktun-Chen Park

by Gary J Wood

Aktun-Chen Park is perhaps one of the most thrilling parks in this part of the country. It’s located just 20 minutes away from Tulum, making it the ideal spot to spend the afternoon.

The cave system has got to be the most impressive highlight of the Aktun-Chen Park. Guests can go for a dip in the underground cenote, explore the cave system on a guided tour, or go for an adventure-filled zipline ride above the wilderness.

Note that this is far from the cheapest thing to do in Tulum. In fact, you can expect to pay upwards of $100 to experience all the attractions in Aktun-Chen.

Drive north along the coast, you’ll reach Aktun-Chen 20 minutes after leaving Tulum.

Look For Jaguars At Punta Laguna Nature Reserve

Visiting this vibrant reserve is an absolute must for anyone who wants to experience Mexico’s exotic wilderness. Book a guided tour of Punta Laguna to learn all there is to know about the local flora and fauna.

The reserve is home to lots of fascinating animals. Bumping into spider and howler monkeys is nearly guaranteed. If you’re lucky, you might just spot a jaguar too. This isn’t a major tourist attraction in the region, or at least not yet. Crowds should not be an issue at Punta Laguna.

Adrenaline junkies will find themselves right at home in Punta Laguna. You can ride the zipline across the lake just like Indiana Jones, or hop in a kayak.

The drive up to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve will take you around an hour one-way.

Visit Tulum Archeological Site

The waterfront Tulum Archeological Site is perhaps the best-known attraction here. Don’t let the crowds discourage you from visiting this spot, as it’s absolutely mindblowing!

What makes Tulum Archeological Site stand out from any other Mayan site in the region is its gorgeous setting- right in front of the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

This Mayan city is made up of over 60 restored temples. The site sits atop a cliff right by the sea. It’s no wonder that this is the most-photographed spot in the region.

After exploring the Archeological Site, you can head down to the small sandy beach. There’s not too much space, so you may want to get here during off-peak hours.

Family Fun At Xel-Ha

If you’re a fan of waterparks, you surely need to drop by Xel-Ha.

Xel-Ha isn’t your average theme park, however. Instead, it’s a fun mix of waterpark attractions mixed with the natural wonderland. In fact, it’s often considered to be one of the most spectacular aquatic parks on the planet. It’s certainly worth visiting, at least for the scenery itself.

Guests can climb the 70-feet (30m) tall lighthouse to admire panoramic views of the area, and then hop on the waterslide to go back down. Xel-Ha Park is packed with fun activities, including ziplines, snorkeling, and natural caves waiting to be explored. Naturally, you’ll also find cenotes and wild jungle trails here.

The park is a 20-minute drive away from Tulum.

Day Trip to Chichen-Itza

This is it, the most famous Mayan pyramid in the country. Chichen-Itza is a bucket-list attraction for travelers across the globe. It may not be in Tulum, though it’s located just a 2-hour drive away. As a result, it makes for a perfect day trip from Tulum!

Tourists are able to climb some of the ancient towers throughout Mexico. However, this is not the case at Chichen-Itza. Climbing the tower is forbidden. You may only admire it from ground level.

As this is the most popular archeological site in Mexico, you can expect it to be rather crowded. Arrive early in the morning to beat at least some of the crowds.

The site is open 7 days a week between 8AM and 4PM. Admission costs around 400 pesos, or $20, per person.

The journey from Tulum to Chichen-Itza and back will take around 4 hours both ways.

Photograph Ven a La Luz At The Hotel Zone

You will probably recognize this unbelievable sculpture from social media. It’s one of the most Instagrammed spots in Tulum, and perhaps all of the Riviera Maya. The 10-meter tall structure has been drawing in crowds ever since its debut in 2018.

As of late 2021, the sculpture can be found at AHAU Tulum. A photo with the wooden art piece will set you back 60 pesos. Expect to wait in a queue, especially on weekends. The site is open between 9AM and 8PM.

AHAU Tulum is a waterfront hotel located within The Hotel Zone.

Swim At One Of The Best Beaches in Tulum

It is no secret that Tulum is home to some of the best beaches in the world. It’s one of the main reasons why so many tourists flock to this part of Mexico every year.

The gorgeous coastline stretches for miles, only bringing one question to mind- what beaches in Tulum are the absolute best?

These are our top picks in Tulum and the surrounding area:

  • Playa Ruinas
  • Playa Paraiso
  • Akumal Beach
  • Secret Beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere

With that said, you’re bound to have a good time at virtually any beach here. All of them are drop-dead gorgeous!

Playa Ruinas

This is the famous beach that sits right below the Tulum Archeological Site. It’s quite small and often packed with tourists. On the other hand, the scenery is unforgettable. It’s easy to see why so many tourists choose to come specifically to this sandy beach. Come early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Playa Ruinas is open 7 days a week from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Playa Paraiso

This one is an absolute must. Playa Paraiso, rightfully named Paradise Beach, lays just a few minutes south of the Tulum Archeological Site and stretches along the Hotel Zone.

Unlike Playa Ruinas, Playa Paraiso is quite wide and long, hence it can accommodate a lot more people. Hordes of tourists aren’t really an issue, perhaps only during the absolute peak tourist season.

This public beach can be accessed 24/7, free of charge. You can rent chairs, umbrellas and other equipment right on the beach itself.

Akumal Beach

Akumal Beach isn’t exactly in Tulum. In fact, it’s roughly halfway between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, so it’s definitely worth a stop on a drive from Tulum to Cancun.

Amenities and facilities are plentiful at Akumal Beach. You can unwind at one of the waterfront bars and restaurants, or rent a sunbed and sunbathe for hours on end. You can snorkel here, too. If you’re lucky, you may spot turtles and colorful fish.

Expect this beach to get quite crowded, especially on weekends.

The drive from Tulum to Akumal Beach will take you 30 minutes one-way.

Secret Beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere

The pristine sandy beach at Sian Ka’an Biosphere is ideal for those looking for a more private experience. This secluded beach is in the heart of the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve. It does not have any facilities.

You’ll need to cycle or hike to reach the secret beach, it cannot be accessed by car. Just finding it is an adventure in itself! Once you’re here, you’ll be rewarded with a serene sandy beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll be the only one there.

Go On A Road Trip

Want to make the absolute most of your time in Mexico? Going on a road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula will allow you to see many different attractions in the region.

We’ve prepared a curated road trip guide around the Yucatan Peninsula. The trip begins in Cancun, then continues south all the way to San Cristobal de Las Casas, before looping back up to Cancun via the west coast.

Check out the full itinerary right here.

Bonus: Renting a car In Tulum

A private car is unarguably the best way of getting around Tulum, especially if you plan to head out of town. Before renting a car in Tulum, be sure to read our guide on Car Rental Insurance in Mexico. It’s better to come prepared!

Don’t forget to book your rental car in Mexico via Rentalmoose. Our platform features over 15 000 locations worldwide, as well as rental cars only from trusted and verified suppliers. Browse through rental cars at your favorite destinations.

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What Is a Standard Car- Rental Car Basics

Knowing the different types of car categories offered by rental companies is a must. Here is what you can expect when booking a standard rental car.

A Ford Mondeo is considered to be a standard car in the world of rental cars.
a Ford Mondeo is classified as a standard car.

We have divided this quick guide into the following sections to make it as easy to follow as possible. Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each part of the blog post.

What Is A Standard Car?

A standard car is larger than an intermediate and smaller than a full-size. Frankly speaking, the name is rather self-explanatory. Standard rental cars are just that- standard. A prime example would be a Volkswagen Jetta, which can is a popular pick among rental companies worldwide.

All standard rental cars will share the following features:

  • space for up to 5 occupants (including the driver)
  • four doors
  • more cargo space than an intermediate car
  • good fuel economy
  • roughly the same size as a Volkswagen Jetta

Note that some rental companies offer slightly larger cars, such as MPVs and some crossovers, that are classified as standard. Continue reading to find out more about different examples of standard rental cars.

Standard Car Models

Keep in mind that you are not guaranteed a particular make and model when booking a rental car. You’re actually booking a rental car type instead. That’s why you’ll see the words Or Similar next to your rental car.

With that in mind, these are some cars you may receive when booking a standard car:

  • Volkswagen Jetta
  • Kia Sportage
  • Vauxhall Insignia
  • Buick Verano
  • Citroen C4 Grand Picasso
  • Ford Mondeo
  • Volkswagen Passat
  • Ford C-Max
  • Renault Laguna
  • Vauxhall Corsa

When You Should Rent a Standard Car

Standard cars are ideal when an intermediate rental car just doesn’t cut it in terms of space, for example on longer trips. After all, a standard car has enough room in the trunk for at least one more piece of luggage compared with an intermediate car. Rear-seat passengers can expect more legroom, too.

On the flip side, standard cars are harder to park in tight spots. Fuel economy may be worse than your average intermediate or compact car, as well.

If you’re planning to drive a few hundred kilometers with two to three passengers and their luggage, a standard car may just be perfect. If you crave more space, consider renting a full-size instead.

Know More About Your Rental Car Type

As mentioned above, you always book a rental car type as opposed to a specific make and model. Although you are not guaranteed a particular vehicle, you can work out many of its features and specifications.

Rental companies around the world use the four-character ACRISS code to classify their fleets. The code includes information on the car type, category, drivetrain type, transmission, and even whether or not it has air conditioning.

Don’t forget to book your next rental car through RentalmooseOur platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.


We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.

What is a Compact Car- Rental Car Basics

2021 Volkswagen Golf is considered a compact car by rental car companies.
Courtesy of Volkswagen

The car rental world is made up of nearly 20 different categories. Keeping up with them all can be difficult, especially if you haven’t rented a car in a while. Here’s a quick guide to help you figure out what exactly a compact car is according to rental companies.

Rental companies are constantly shifting their fleets, hence guaranteeing renters a particular make and model would be virtually impossible. That’s why rental companies actually rent car types, as opposed to particular models.

To keep things simple and clear, rental companies throughout the globe use the same unified car classification system. The ACRISS code consists of four characters that describe the type of car offered by the company.

The first letter in the ACRISS code describes one of the 18 different car categories. Compact is one of them.

We’ve divided this blog post into the following sections to keep it as short as possible:

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What is A Compact Rental Car

Compact cars are medium-sized. They are smaller than intermediate cars and bigger than mini cars.

Remember that a rental company cannot guarantee you a particular make and model. For this very reason, the exact dimensions and specifications of compact cars can slightly vary. Some rental companies also classify small SUVs, such as the Nissan Juke, as compacts.

You can expect every single compact rental car to have the following:

  • space for up to 5 occupants
  • 4 doors
  • excellent fuel economy
  • similar in size to a Nissan Versa

In addition, some rental companies may also offer economy cars as well as compacts. Note that both of these types are very similar to each other, though a compact will typically be a little larger.

Examples of Compact Rental Cars

Compact rental cars are, despite the name, pretty spacious. As mentioned above, a Nissan Versa is considered a compact car. Some more examples of compact rental cars include:

  • Nissan Versa
  • Volkswagen Golf
  • Vauxhall Astra
  • Ford Fusion
  • Volkswagen Beetle
  • Nissan Juke
  • Ford Focus
  • Hyundai i30
  • Kia Soul
  • Peugeot 306
  • Opel Meriva

When Is It Best To Rent a Compact Car

As compact rental cars are smaller than intermediate and full-size sedans, they are ideal for driving around the city with friends or family. Compact cars can easily fit into tight parking spaces, and their small engines are renowned for exceptional fuel efficiency.

For example, a 2021 Volkswagen Golf can drive up to 39 miles on a single gallon of fuel. That equates to only around 6 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Rent a compact car and you’ll never have to worry about gas prices again!

If you’re planning a longer trip with more than two passengers and their luggage, you may be comfortable in an intermediate car, though. A couple going on a romantic weekend to Lake Tahoe from LA will be perfectly happy with a fuel-efficient compact.

Know More About Your Rental Car Type

We already mentioned that rental companies use a unified four-character ACRISS code to describe their rental cars. Did you know that you can figure out the car type, category, drivetrain, fuel type, transmission, and even if it has A/C, all by looking at its ACRISS code?

Remember that you are never guaranteed a particular make and model when booking a rental car. Instead, you’re actually booking a car type defined by its ACRISS code. That’s exactly why you’ll see the words or similar next to the make and model when browsing through rental cars.

Don’t forget to book your next rental car through RentalmooseOur platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.


We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.

Driving in California-A Tourist Guide

California is one of the best tourist destinations in all of the United States. A private car is unarguably the best way of getting around, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple cities.

Even if you’re planning to stick to one city, like Los Angeles, you’ll be better off with a rental car. This particular city extends for nearly 45 miles (70km) from north to south!

Driving in California for the first time can seem a little scary, at least at first. We’ve prepared a guide to help you navigate through California’s traffic laws and regulations. That way, you can make the most out of your California holiday.

To keep this guide as convenient as possible, it has been broken down into the following sections. You can click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section.

Without further ado, let’s jump into this post!

Before You Leave- California Car Rentals

Planning is key to a fun and stress-free holiday. Ensure you’re all set before leaving for California using the information below.

Rental Cars in California

You can find your rental car via Rentalmoose. Rentalmoose features only verified suppliers across over 15 000 locations worldwide. Browse through rental cars from Hertz, Europcar, National, Enterprise, Alamo, and more. We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.

Who Can Drive a Car in California?

Teens as young as 14 can be permitted to drive a car in California in special cases. Drivers between 16 and 18 can drive with a provisional license, and anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a regular driving license. However, you need to be older in order to rent a car in the same state.

In fact, most California rental companies will permit drivers who are at least 21 years old to rent a car, as long as they’ve had their driving license for at least a year. Note that young drivers may not have access to the entire fleet though. Luxury cars or powerful drop-tops are usually reserved for drivers with more experience.

Big Sur, Pacific Coast Highway

Renters aged between 21 and 25 should prepare to pay an additional young driver fee. This daily fee will be added on top of your rental bill for anyone under 25, as well as seniors (usually over 65 years old).

Did you know that renters can face up to 20 additional fees when renting a car? You can learn how to avoid them in this blog post.

International Driving Permits- Are They Required in California?

An International Driving Permit is not required by tourists driving in California. You can simply use your foreign driving license. Note that some rental companies may ask for an IDP, even when it is not legally required by the state or country you’re in. It’s always best to double-check directly with the supplier before setting off.

You can check out this blog post for more information on renting a car in California. You’ll find out all about the standard insurance, how to avoid young driver fees, and more practical information.

California Traffic Laws and Regulations

Seatbelts and Other Mandatory Safety Measures

Seatbelts are an absolute must for all occupants in a car.

In addition, motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet at all times. This applies to their passengers, too.

Speed Limits

Watch your speed at all times, as the limits are strictly enforced throughout the state.

These are the speed limits in California unless there are signs that state otherwise:

  • 15-25mph (25-40kmh)- school zones, railroad crossings with poor visibility- under 400ft in both directions
  • 25mph (40kmh)- urban areas, such as business and residential districts
  • 55mph (90kmh)- two-lane undivided highways
  • 65-70mph (105-110kmh)- multi-lane highways, such as freeways or interstates
  • 55mph (90kmh)- maximum speed for vehicles towing trailers

As mentioned above, speed limits are strictly enforced in the state of California, much like in the majority of the US. The police can even use aircraft to enforce speed limits. If you’re caught speeding, you can expect to pay up to $900 for serious offenses. Criminal charges are possible for reckless drivers, too.

Overtaking and Lane Changes

A general rule of thumb is to stick on the right lane on highways and use the ones on the left for overtaking.

Overtaking on the right side is allowed, as long as there are at least two clearly-marked lanes going in the same direction.

Lane Splitting

Lane-splitting is legally permitted for motorcycles in California. Be sure to look out for bikes when driving!

Carpool (HOV) Lanes

Carpool lanes are a clever way to reduce the number of vehicles on busy roads. You can spot them on some of the busiest freeways in the states, especially in big cities such as Los Angeles or San Francisco. They are marked by a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on the surface.

You can use carpool lanes, as long as you have at least two (or three in some places) occupants in the vehicle, including the driver. Note that vehicles towing trailers are forbidden to use carpool lanes, no matter how many people are in the vehicle.

Turning Right at A Red Light

The ability to turn right at a red light continues to amaze many European tourists in many US states.

In California, it is legal to turn right at a red light, unless there are signs that prohibit it. Note that you must first come to a complete stop at the red light before turning right.

Pedestrians Have The Right of Way

Pedestrians have the right of way at any intersection. Crosswalks do not need to have lines painted on the road. What’s more, pedestrians are permitted to use unmarked intersections, unless there are signs that state otherwise.

busy hollywood boulevard lots of tourists in front of chinese theatre on a sunny day in hollywood california

Use of Mobile Phones, Texting and Driving

It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving in California. This is a distraction that can have deadly consequences for you, as well as other road users. Keep your hands off your phone when driving.

Fully hands-free devices are the only exception.

Drinking and Driving

Much like the rest of the United States, California takes drinking and driving very seriously. Although the legal limit is 0.8%, you can still be charged for drunk driving if you’re impaired, even if the alcohol level is below the legal limit.

Drivers caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be arrested on the spot. Never drink and drive.

Smoking in The Car

If you’re driving with children, it is illegal to smoke tobacco products in the vehicle. Not only is it against the law, but also incredibly bad for your health.

Opened Containers

Driving under the influence is a very serious crime in California. To help reduce the number of drunk drivers out on the roads, the officials have made it illegal to have any open alcohol containers within the passenger compartment of a vehicle- including the glovebox. If you have any open alcohol bottle, it has to be transported in the trunk.

DON’T FORGET TO USE RENTALMOOSE TO COMPARE THE BEST DEALS FROM OUR TRUSTED SUPPLIERS.

Manual Rental Cars- All You Need To Know

Though most vehicles sold today are automatics, manual rental cars are not going anywhere! Check out this guide to learn all you need to know about stick-shift automobiles in the world of car rental.

Picking the right transmission car to suit your needs is absolutely crucial. This is particularly important if you plan to rent a car for a long period of time or take it for a cross-country road trip.

For this very reason, Rentalmoose has created a comprehensive guide on manual rental cars. We’ll cover everything from reasons to book a manual car, finding a stick-shift vehicle, all the way to driving one.

To keep things simple, this handy guide is divided into 5 different sections. You can click one of the links below to quickly jump to each part of the blog post.

Without further ado, let’s dive right in!

Manual Vs Automatic Rental Cars

Torn between an automatic and a good ol’ stick shift? Check out some of the reasons why some drivers prefer manual transmissions.

Full Control Over Gears And Shifting

This one is quite obvious. The reason why many drivers love manual transmissions is that they are in full control of the gearbox. As the driver, you decide when to shift. This may not matter to everyone, though some people simply find it more enjoyable.

Some cars offer a semi-automatic transmission where the driver can still shift up and down without a clutch, though that feature is mostly reserved for sports cars.

Long Trips and Driving In The City

While a manual transmission is perfectly fine when driving on a long highway, it could get annoying very quick in the city. Imagine being stuck in rush-hour traffic, constantly having to keep your left foot on and off the clutch.

If you’re planning to stick to city driving, you may want to re-think renting a manual car. For long journeys, however, manual rental cars can be the perfect pick.

More Driving Pleasure

According to some car fans, driving a car with a manual transmission is simply more fun than an automatic. While this is definitely a matter of personal taste, it’s pretty clear that a manual transmission is simply more engaging for the driver.

It’s Cheaper Than An Automatic

Renting a manual car will always be cheaper than an automatic.

If a rental company happens to have the exact same vehicle, the only difference being the transmission type, you can be sure that the manual will have a lower day rate.

Renters who want to drive stick can save a few bucks along the way, too.

Note that this does rule does not apply in the United States, as there aren’t any manual rental cars offered there. Keep reading for more details.

Where Can You Find A Manual Rental Car?

Manual rental cars are very common throughout European countries. In most cases, the cheapest vehicles offered by a rental company come equipped with a stick shift.

The majority of trusted suppliers, such as Hertz, Europcar, Budget, or Enterprise, all offer manual rental cars in Europe as well as other countries. You can use Rentalmoose to filter manual rental cars at your selected location.

Cars with a stick shift have become hard to come by in the US. That brings up another question.

How To Check If Your Rental Car Will Be A Manual- ACRISS Code

When browsing through rental cars, you should always keep in mind that you’re not actually booking a specific model. Instead, you’re booking a car category that meets the criteria you’ve picked. That’s why you’ll see the words “or similar” next to the model name.

With that in mind, there is an easy way to check what transmission type your rental car will have. The third character in the vehicle’s ACRISS code describes its transmission.

The letters A, B, D indicate that the vehicle is an auto. Take a look at the example below.

CCMN- a compact 2/4 door manual without air conditioning.

CCAN- a compact 2/4 door automatic without air conditioning.

Can You Rent A Manual Car In The United States?

Finding a manual rental car in the US is virtually impossible. Though there may be a few local rental companies that still offer stick shifts, a manual rental car is a rare sight.

Alamo and Budget still have some manual vehicles at select locations, though they’re very difficult to find.

The number of manual automobiles in the US is dropping rapidly. According to Carmax, less than 2.5% of cars sold in the US come equipped with a stick shift. That’s quite a drop from 25% a little over two decades ago.

As a result, just 1 in 5 American drivers know how to drive manual. While that may not necessarily be a bad thing, it dramatically reduces the amount of stick shift rental cars in the country. Most drivers simply prefer automatics, either due to comfort, a lack of skill, or both.

The lack of manual transmissions in the US is good news for drivers who prefer automatics, though. Renters don’t have to pay a premium rate to receive an automatic car, as opposed to Europe where the cheapest rental cars are typically diesel-powered manuals.

How Do You Drive Stick Shift?

Driving a manual can be a little tricky after a long break. However, you should be able to get the hang of it after a few minutes. You can also check out our quick guide to driving a stick shift, just in case.

If you’ve never driven stick before, it may be a better idea to go with an automatic rental car.

Rent A Manual Car With Rentalmoose

Rentalmoose has made renting manual rental cars easier than ever before. Simply go to our website, find a location, select pick-up and drop-off dates, and hit enter.

Once the results pop up, you are able to set additional filters. This can be anything from the renter’s age, the deposit amount, and the transmission type.

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