Kia has launched a new digital app to streamline its rental service for users.

The new app now simplifies, digitises and automates almost the entire rental process

Billed as a smart short-term car hire solution, Kia Rental brings flexible access to vehicles, including EVs, available on hourly, daily and weekly hire periods.

The new app now simplifies, digitises and automates almost the entire rental process. Customers can view, book and manage rentals, as well as sign digital rental agreements – all backed by a commitment that they’ll hire the exact vehicle they choose to drive.

Vehicles on offer range from the Picanto city car to the Sorento seven-seat SUV, all supplied through participating dealers and including eco and all-electric options. Using the app, customers can easily see whether a vehicle is automatic or manual, with factory-fitted satellite navigation available across most cars.

New customers can register for rentals within minutes using secure in-app software and then select desired dates and search for available vehicles from their nearest Kia dealership. Drivers then simply turn up, park for free, pay and are given the keys. Customers are also directed to take photos of various angles of the rental car, noting any existing damage. The app will also show mileage and fuel remaining, ensuring complete transparency – with most rentals available on a like-for-like fuel returns policy.

It’s the latest work by the carmaker to transform itself into a mobility-focused brand. The brand first introduced Kia Rental at dealerships in October 2014, available to both retail and fleet/business customers. More recently, it revealed its ‘Plan S’ strategy, covering the mid- to long-term and aimed at progressively establishing a leadership position in the future automotive industry, encompassing mobility services and vehicle electrification, connectivity and autonomy.

John Hargreaves, general manager for fleet and remarketing at Kia UK, commented: “Since even before its launch in late 2014, Kia Rental has attracted some dedicated retail and fleet customers because of the quality of service. The new app is designed to streamline the process even further and get rid of the usual time-consuming processes associated with renting cars. We want this to be as simple as possible for customers.

“Whether it is for a job-need, to try out a new model or take a larger car on a family trip, Kia Rental offers a truly flexible service.”

The app is available across both the Apple App Store for iOS and Google Play Store for Android devices and the Kia Rental service will be rolled out to more UK dealers next year.