by Megan Natt
posted on December 20, 2015
Compact, cute, and 100% electric
Throughout December, we’re showcasing some of the sweetest cars that Turo owners have to offer with our “12 cars of Christmas” blog series. Start ticking cars off your must-drive bucket list, or get inspired to rent out your killer ride and share the love with other car aficionados.
Emery’s fully-electric 2015 Fiat 500E is the perfect Portland car, and that’s exactly why he bought it. A self-described “nerd” and electric car aficionado, he had been reading up extensively on EVs and various battery technologies and eventually landed on the Fiat to suit his needs.
Since he works at the Portland International Airport, one of the greenest airports in the world with over 40 charging stations, the electric car seemed like a natural fit. And with an 80-mile range between charges, the Fiat works well in eco-friendly Portland. “There are charging stations all around the city. My renters often start out apprehensive that they’ll run out of charge without a station nearby, but as soon as they start driving around, they realize how easy Portland makes it for EV drivers.”
And you’re not confined to stay within the city limits. “There’s a green highway that stretches out to the coast with charging stations every 40 or so miles, with wineries along the way. It’s a beautiful 120-mile drive,” he said. That green highway also stretches from Seattle to California down Interstate 5 — so travelers needn’t worry about running out of juice.
One of his guests even drove up to nearby Mt. Hood, using clever tactics to capture energy from braking and coasting. It should be noted, however, that this renter worked in logistics and had the trip planned to a T. “I was shocked when he told me everywhere he went. It was pretty impressive,” Emery recalls.
Next time you’re in the Rose City, do as the Portlanders do and try going electric with Emery’s zippy little Fiat. Also check out his photos and description — they’ll make you want to drop everything and book a trip to PDX ASAP.
