Bermuda had its first airport car rental today, after years of settling the logistics of how it would be done.

The first customer drove off the car rental lot today in a just-imported vehicle from Rugged Rentals.

Tallent Clark, managing director, hosted an official ribbon cutting ceremony near the company’s new ground floor office next to BermudAir at LF Wade International Airport with Owen Darrell, the Tourism and Transport Minister.

After welcoming remarks, invited guests gathered for a networking event. Apart from the hotels, the Ministry of Transport, Skyport, Bermuda Airport Authority, BermudAir and the Bermuda Tourism Authority were listed as Rugged Rentals partners.

Mr Clark said the service comes amid strong demand from visitors. He told The Royal Gazette that market analysis included a simple and clear indication of that demand.

He said: “No surveys were done, but if we can take the daily calls and daily e-mails of customers asking if they can either pick up or drop off at the airport — we’ll take that as the official survey.”

The company’s new location allows visitors to collect their vehicle immediately upon landing.

A statement said electric minicars feature seating for two passengers, air conditioning, Apple CarPlay, reverse cameras, parking sensors, and trunk room suitable for suitcases, beach bags and shopping.

They are capable of travelling the length of the island up to three times on a single charge.

The company also continues to expand its island-wide charging network. Charging stations are currently available at several hotels and properties across the island, including Rosewood Bermuda, Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, Coco Reef, Azura, Royal Palms and Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa.

Drivers can locate charging stations through the Rugged Rentals Zap Map available on the company website.

Mr Clark said: “There is no need to worry about charging anywhere on the island.”

In addition to the new airport location, Rugged Rentals currently offers public pick-up locations in Hamilton and St George’s, along with hotel pick-up options for guests at the several partner properties.

Customers can book directly online through the Rugged Rentals website, with multi-day booking discounts available.