Mobile app-based car-rental company Silvercar coming to LAX

Forget everything you know about renting a car at the airport: finding the office, getting in line and waiting for a representative at the counter. And then there’s all the paperwork. Instead, imagine completing the entire transaction, from reservation to dropoff, on your mobile device.

That’s the promise of Silvercar, a newish car-rental company that will begin serving incoming passengers at Los Angeles International Airport starting Nov. 4. Here’s how it works: A concierge meets you at the airport and drives you to an off-site location to pick up a car. Scan the QR code on the windshield with your smartphone or mobile device, which unlocks the car, and you’re good to go.

The company, based in Austin, Texas, rents only new silver Audi A4s that come equipped with Google Earth GPS navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, in-car Wi-Fi and, where needed, a tag for tolls at no additional charge. It also streamlines returns by charging customers for gas they’ve used (at local market rates) plus a $5 service fee.

For a firsthand look, check out the story by Ryan Lawler of Tech Crunch who tried the service earlier this year in Dallas.

LAX car-rental rates are priced at $89 per weekday and $59 per day on weekends. The company is taking reservations via iOS or Android devices. Silvercar, which launched in January, also serves airports in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston Hobby and San Francisco.

Info: Silvercar

Mary.Forgione@latimes.com
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