Rent Tesla/EV in China: Complete Guide for Foreigners 2026

Yes, foreigners can rent Tesla and other electric vehicles (EVs) in China with a valid Chinese driver’s license. China has the world’s most extensive EV rental network, with Tesla Model 3/Y, BYD, NIO, and other brands widely available at ¥350-800 per day. The process is identical to renting gas cars, but you’ll need to understand China’s charging infrastructure, range planning, and EV-specific rental policies. This guide covers everything foreigners need to know about renting electric vehicles in China, from booking to charging to returning the car.

This guide provides complete information for independent EV rentals. We also offer rental booking assistance with EV selection guidance and charging network setup for those who prefer curated support.

Why Rent an EV in China?

Advantages of EVs Over Gas Cars

Key insight: EVs cost more upfront but save 60-75% on fuel. For trips over 500km, fuel savings offset higher rental cost. EVs excel in city driving (restriction exemptions, parking perks) but require more planning for long highway trips.

Best Use Cases for Renting EVs in China

EVs are ideal for:

• ✅ City exploration (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen) – green plate benefits, lower cost
• ✅ Short-medium trips (200-400km per day) – one charge cycle comfortable
• ✅ Highway corridors with dense charging (Beijing-Shanghai, Guangzhou-Shenzhen)
• ✅ Multi-day rentals (5+ days) – fuel savings accumulate significantly
• ✅ Experiencing Chinese EV technology (especially Tesla, NIO, BYD)

Gas cars are better for:

• ❌ Long-distance road trips (500+ km/day) in remote areas
• ❌ Winter driving in northern China (Harbin, Inner Mongolia)
• ❌ Areas with sparse charging infrastructure (western provinces)
• ❌ Short 1-2 day rentals where EV rental premium isn’t offset by fuel savings

Requirements for Foreigners to Rent EVs

License and Document Requirements

Exactly the same as gas car rentals:

• ✅ Valid Chinese driver’s license (temporary or permanent)
• ✅ Passport
• ✅ Credit card for deposit (¥6,000-20,000 depending on EV model)
• ✅ Chinese phone number (for rental app and charging apps)

No additional EV-specific license required. Your standard Chinese C1 license covers all passenger EVs including Tesla, NIO, BYD, etc.

Age and Experience Requirements

For foreigners specifically: Most companies require Chinese license held for at least 3-6 months before renting premium EVs like Tesla Model 3/Y. Budget EVs (BYD Dolphin, etc.) available with freshly-converted license.

Best EV Rental Companies for Foreigners

Option 1: eHi Car Services (易嗨租车)

Why best for foreigners: Largest EV fleet, English app, accepts international credit cards reliably

EV Fleet:

• Tesla Model 3: ¥650-800/day
• Tesla Model Y: ¥750-900/day
• BYD Seal: ¥450-600/day
• BYD Dolphin: ¥350-450/day
• NIO ES6: ¥700-850/day
• XPeng P7: ¥500-650/day

Pros:

• ✅ 200+ locations across China (airports, downtown, train stations)
• ✅ English app with customer service
• ✅ Includes charging card (some locations)
• ✅ Clear insurance options
• ✅ One-way rentals available (different city drop-off)

Cons:

• ❌ Higher deposit for foreigners (¥10,000-20,000)
• ❌ Limited English support at pick-up counters
• ❌ Deposit refund takes 15-30 days

Booking: www.1hai.cn (Chinese) or through Ctrip/Trip.com (English)

Option 2: EVCARD (环球车享)

Why consider: Largest EV-only car-sharing network, flexible hourly/daily rates

EV Fleet:

• BYD e2: ¥350-450/day
• Roewe Ei5: ¥300-400/day
• Tesla Model 3 (limited): ¥650-750/day
• Volkswagen ID.4: ¥500-600/day

Pros:

• ✅ Massive network (50,000+ EVs in major cities)
• ✅ Flexible pricing: ¥0.5-1.5/minute or daily rate
• ✅ Self-service pick-up (unlock via app)
• ✅ Lower deposit (¥5,000-8,000)

Cons:

• ❌ App entirely in Chinese (no English version)
• ❌ Requires Chinese ID verification (passport + residence permit)
• ❌ Limited premium EVs (mostly budget models)
• ❌ Charging not always included – you may need to charge before return

Booking: EVCARD app (WeChat mini-program also available)

Option 3: Hertz China

Why consider: International brand with predictable policies

EV Fleet:

• Tesla Model 3: ¥700-850/day
• BYD Seal: ¥500-650/day
• NIO ET5: ¥650-800/day

Pros:

• ✅ English booking website and counter staff
• ✅ International credit cards accepted reliably
• ✅ Standard international rental policies
• ✅ Airport locations convenient

Cons:

• ❌ Smaller EV fleet than local companies
• ❌ Higher prices (10-20% premium vs eHi)
• ❌ Limited locations (mainly Tier 1 cities)

Booking: www.hertz.cn (English available)

Option 4: NIO Power Swap Rentals

Unique offering: NIO cars with battery swap access (3-5 minute “charging”)

How it works:

• Rent NIO ES6, ES8, ET5, or ET7
• Access to NIO’s battery swap network (1,300+ stations nationwide)
• Swap depleted battery for full battery in 3-5 minutes (vs 30-40 min fast charging)

Pricing:

• NIO ES6: ¥700-850/day
• NIO ET5: ¥650-800/day
• Battery swaps: ¥100-150 per swap (or included with some rental packages)

Pros:

• ✅ Eliminates charging wait time
• ✅ Ideal for long-distance trips
• ✅ Premium EV experience

Cons:

• ❌ Higher rental cost
• ❌ Swap stations less common than chargers (mainly on highways)
• ❌ Must rent through NIO-approved partners

Booking: NIO app or through Ctrip/Trip.com

Understanding China’s EV Charging Infrastructure

Charging Network Overview

China has 2.2 million public charging points (2026 data) – the world’s largest network. However, infrastructure quality varies by region:

Charging Speed and Time

Typical charging cost examples:

• Tesla Model 3 (60 kWh battery, 10% → 80%): ¥60-90 (420km range)
• BYD Seal (82 kWh battery, 10% → 80%): ¥80-120 (500km range)

Compare to gas: Equivalent 100km in gas car = ¥70-120. EV = ¥15-30. 60-75% savings.

Essential Charging Apps for Foreigners

Must-have apps:

1. State Grid (国家电网) App

• Largest network (1 million+ chargers)
• Covers most highway service areas
• Payment: Alipay, WeChat Pay
• Interface: Chinese only, but icons intuitive

2. Tesla App (if renting Tesla)

• Find Tesla Superchargers
• Pre-condition battery for faster charging
• Navigate to chargers with real-time availability
• Interface: English available

3. Kuaidian (快电) or Telaidian (特来电)

• Aggregator showing multiple networks
• Real-time charger availability
• Price comparison
• Interface: Mainly Chinese

Setup before trip:

1. Download all 3 apps
2. Link Alipay or WeChat Pay
3. Create accounts (passport or Chinese phone number)
4. Add ¥500-1,000 to app wallets for charging

Renting a Tesla in China: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Booking (7-14 Days Before Trip)

Recommended platform: Ctrip/Trip.com (English interface) or eHi directly

What to select:

• Model: Tesla Model 3 Standard Range (best value) or Long Range (longer trips)
• Duration: Minimum 3 days recommended (EV rental premium offset by fuel savings)
• Insurance: Get Collision Damage Waiver minimum (¥80-100/day)
• One-way option: If ending in different city (¥500-2,000 fee)

Price example (Beijing, 5 days):

• Tesla Model 3 rental: ¥700/day × 5 = ¥3,500
• Insurance (CDW): ¥80/day × 5 = ¥400
• Deposit: ¥15,000 (refunded after return)
• Total upfront: ¥3,900 + ¥15,000 deposit

Step 2: Pick-up at Rental Location

Documents to bring:

• Chinese driver’s license
• Passport
• Credit card for deposit
• Rental confirmation (show on phone)

Vehicle inspection checklist:

1. Exterior: Check for scratches, dents (take photos/video of ALL sides including undercarriage)
2. Battery level: Should be 80%+ at pick-up. If <50%, request charging or different car.
3. Range displayed: Note the range (e.g., “420km”) – you’ll need this at return
4. Interior: Check for damage, cleanliness
5. Charging cable: Verify included (home charger + portable charger)
6. Charging card/app: Ask if rental includes charging card

Tesla-specific checks:

• Verify Tesla account is set to rental mode (not previous renter’s account)
• Check Tesla app on your phone connects to the car
• Confirm Autopilot is enabled (if paying for it)

Step 3: Driving and Charging

First-time Tesla drivers:

• Practice regenerative braking in parking lot (car slows significantly when you lift accelerator)
• Understand gear selector: Push up = Reverse, Push down = Drive, Press button on end = Park
• Door handles: Push thick end to open (they’re flush with door)
• Emergency: Voice command “打开手套箱” (open glovebox) to access manual

Range management strategy:

Rule: Never let battery drop below 20%

• Plan charging stops when battery hits 30-40%
• Budget 30-40 minutes per charging stop
• Highway driving reduces range by 20-30% vs city (due to speed)
• Air conditioning reduces range by 10-15%

Example trip planning: Beijing to Tianjin (120km highway)

• Start: 90% battery = ~380km range
• Highway driving: 120km uses ~35% battery
• Arrive with: ~55% battery = 230km remaining
• Decision: Explore Tianjin for the day, charge before returning OR charge in Tianjin before exploring

Charging procedure:

1. Use Tesla app or State Grid app to find chargers
2. Navigate to charging station
3. Park in charging spot (usually marked with EV icon + green lines)
4. Open charging port (tap on screen: Controls → Charging Port)
5. Plug in charger
6. Scan QR code on charger with app
7. Select charging amount or “充满” (full)
8. Confirm payment method
9. Wait (browse phone, use restroom, get food)
10. When done, unplug and stow cable

Step 4: Returning the Tesla

24 hours before return:

• Check battery level: Rental agreement may require 80%+ return (if lower, extra charge applies)
• If <80%, plan final charging session

At return location:

1. Park in designated return area
2. Staff inspects vehicle (exterior, interior, battery level)
3. Compare with pick-up photos
4. Settle any extra charges (low battery, damage, tolls)
5. Receive deposit release confirmation (refund processes in 15-30 days)

Common extra charges:

• Low battery penalty: ¥100-300 if returned <50%
• Cleaning fee: ¥200-500 if excessively dirty
• Toll/traffic violations: Deducted from deposit (notified later)

Cost Comparison: Tesla vs Gas Car (5-Day Rental)

Break-even analysis:

• 1-2 day rental: Gas car cheaper (EV rental premium not offset)
• 3-4 day rental: Roughly equal (depends on driving distance)
• 5+ day rental: EV becomes cheaper IF driving 800+ km total
• 7+ day rental: EV clearly cheaper for most usage patterns

Non-financial benefits of Tesla:

• Technology experience (Autopilot, large screen, OTA updates)
• Green plate = unrestricted city driving
• Quieter, smoother ride
• Environmental benefits

Other EV Brands: BYD, NIO, XPeng

BYD Seal/Dolphin

Why consider: Significantly cheaper than Tesla, still excellent quality

Models:

• BYD Dolphin: ¥350-450/day, 400km range, compact (5-door hatchback)
• BYD Seal: ¥500-650/day, 550km range, sedan (direct Tesla Model 3 competitor)

Pros:

• ✅ 30-40% cheaper than Tesla
• ✅ BYD Blade Battery (safer, longer lifespan)
• ✅ More available (larger rental fleet)
• ✅ Comfortable ride quality

Cons:

• ❌ Less advanced technology than Tesla
• ❌ Slower charging (most use 60-80kW chargers vs Tesla 120-250kW)
• ❌ English interface limited

Best for: Budget-conscious renters, city driving, first-time EV experience

NIO ES6/ET5

Why consider: Battery swap capability (3-5 minute “charging”)

Models:

• NIO ET5: ¥650-800/day, 560km range, sedan
• NIO ES6: ¥700-850/day, 510km range, SUV

Pros:

• ✅ Battery swap in 3-5 minutes (vs 30-40 min charging)
• ✅ 1,300+ swap stations on highways
• ✅ Premium interior quality
• ✅ NIO Life perks (lounges, concierge service)

Cons:

• ❌ Higher cost than Tesla
• ❌ Battery swap network less dense than chargers
• ❌ Some swap stations require queue (10-20 min wait during holidays)

Best for: Long-distance highway trips, those who hate charging waits

XPeng P7

Why consider: Advanced driver assistance, good value

Model:

• XPeng P7: ¥500-650/day, 560km range, sedan

Pros:

• ✅ XPilot (advanced driver assistance, comparable to Tesla Autopilot)
• ✅ Stylish design
• ✅ Competitive pricing
• ✅ Good highway range

Cons:

• ❌ Smaller rental fleet than Tesla/BYD
• ❌ Less established brand for foreigners

Best for: Tech enthusiasts, highway driving, Tesla alternative

EV Road Trip Planning: Practical Example

Example Trip: Shanghai to Hangzhou (170km each way, 3 days)

Vehicle: Tesla Model 3 Long Range (580km NEDC range, realistic ~480km)

Day 1: Shanghai → Hangzhou

• Start: 90% battery = 430km range
• Highway driving: 170km uses ~40% battery
• Arrive Hangzhou: ~50% battery = 240km remaining
• Evening: Charge at hotel (overnight, AC slow charger) → 90% next morning

Day 2: Hangzhou city exploration

• Start: 90% battery = 430km
• City driving: 80km uses ~20% battery (regenerative braking helps)
• End of day: 70% battery = 335km remaining
• Decision: Sufficient for return trip + buffer, no charging needed

Day 3: Hangzhou → Shanghai + return car

• Start: 70% battery = 335km
• Highway return: 170km uses ~40% battery
• Arrive Shanghai: 30% battery = 145km remaining
• Before return: Quick charge at supercharger near rental office (20 min, 30% → 80%)
• Return car: 80% battery (meets rental requirement)

Total charging costs:

• Hotel overnight: ¥50 (90 kWh × ¥0.9/kWh slow rate)
• Supercharger: ¥45 (30 kWh × ¥2.5/kWh fast rate)
• Total: ¥95

Compare to gas: 340km × 8L/100km × ¥8/L = ¥218

Savings: ¥123 (56% cheaper)

Common Questions from Foreigners

Can I rent a Tesla with a temporary Chinese license?

Yes, most companies accept temporary licenses, but some require license held for 3-6 months for premium EVs like Tesla. Budget EVs (BYD Dolphin) available with fresh license. Check specific company policies when booking.

What if I run out of battery on the highway?

Call rental company roadside assistance (number on rental agreement). They’ll either: (1) Send mobile charging truck (charges you on-site, ¥500-1,000 service fee), or (2) Tow to nearest charger. Prevention: Never let battery drop below 20%, plan charging stops in advance.

Are Tesla Superchargers restricted to Tesla owners only?

Tesla Superchargers only work with Tesla vehicles. If renting other EVs (BYD, NIO, XPeng), use State Grid or third-party chargers. Good news: Third-party charger network much larger (1 million+ vs 1,200 Tesla Superchargers).

How do I pay for charging?

Three methods: (1) Scan QR code on charger with Alipay/WeChat Pay, (2) Use charging network app (State Grid, Telaidian), (3) Use charging card provided by rental company (rare). Set up Alipay/WeChat Pay before trip – most convenient.

What’s the realistic range of an EV in winter?

Expect 15-30% range reduction in cold weather (below 10°C). Tesla Model 3 rated 580km may only achieve 400-480km in winter. Plan accordingly: more frequent charging stops, never drop below 30% battery. Heating cabin uses significant energy.

Can I drive to Tibet or Xinjiang in an EV?

Not recommended. Charging infrastructure sparse in western provinces. Distances between chargers can exceed EV range. If attempting: (1) Rent long-range EV (NIO ES8, Tesla Model Y), (2) Carry portable charger, (3) Research every charging point in advance, (4) Have backup plan. Most experienced travelers use gas cars for remote areas.

Do I need to return the EV fully charged?

Policies vary: Most require 80%+, some accept 50%+ with fee (¥100-300 for charging service), a few require 90%+. Check rental agreement. Pro tip: Charge to required level at fast charger near return location (saves time vs slow charging).

Are there green plate benefits for rental EVs?

Yes! Rental EVs have green plates providing same benefits as private EVs: (1) Exempt from license plate lotteries/restrictions in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, (2) Free or discounted parking at many malls, (3) Allowed in bus lanes in some cities (check local rules), (4) Lower toll fees on some expressways (rare but exists).

Summary: Your EV Rental Action Plan

Before booking (7-14 days ahead):

1. Decide if EV makes sense for your trip (city driving or highway corridors = yes, remote areas = no)
2. Choose company: eHi for variety, Hertz for English support, EVCARD for flexibility
3. Select model: Budget (BYD Dolphin), Value (BYD Seal), Premium (Tesla Model 3), Battery Swap (NIO)
4. Book 7-14 days ahead (popular during weekends/holidays)

Setup (2-3 days before trip):

1. Download apps: Tesla (if renting Tesla), State Grid, Kuaidian
2. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay
3. Add ¥500-1,000 to payment apps for charging
4. Create charging app accounts (Chinese phone number or passport)

At pick-up:

1. Inspect vehicle thoroughly (take photos/videos)
2. Verify battery at 80%+ and note range
3. Confirm charging cable included
4. Test key functions (gear selector, touchscreen, Autopilot if applicable)

During trip:

1. Never let battery drop below 20%
2. Plan charging when battery hits 30-40%
3. Budget 30-40 minutes per charging session
4. Use hotel overnight charging when possible (cheapest)

At return:

1. Charge to 80%+ at fast charger near return location
2. Clean interior if messy
3. Staff inspection
4. Settle extra charges
5. Deposit refund in 15-30 days

Renting an EV in China offers a glimpse into the future of driving. The infrastructure is mature, costs are competitive, and the experience is genuinely enjoyable. With proper planning – especially around charging – EVs are a practical, economical, and exciting way to explore China. Whether you choose a budget-friendly BYD, a tech-forward Tesla, or a swap-capable NIO, you’ll be driving on one of the world’s most advanced EV networks.

For those who prefer curated guidance through the rental process or want personalized EV model recommendations, our rental booking service provides EV-specific support including charging app setup assistance and route planning with charging stop recommendations.