I Rented a 2022 Tesla Model 3 From Hertz For $325 Per Week to Drive For Uber, Is It Worth It? In My Opinion Yes

Imagine renting a Tesla Model 3 for $325 a week (or more) to drive for Uber. Does it sound like a good idea? Let's delve into the details.

Here is a report from a Reddit user who says he rented a Tesla Model 3 from Hertz to drive for Uber and thinks it's a good idea. Here are his reasons why he says yes, it is, and some potential pitfalls for Uber drivers to be aware of. 

Reddit user aestheticeddy818 says, "I rented a Tesla from Hertz to drive for Uber. I drive in Los Angeles. Is it worth it? In my opinion, yes. Why? Because you're not destroying your own car." 

Here are his results after a week of driving a Tesla Model 3 rented from Hertz. 

He says, "You might look at my weekly expenses and think "you can just buy your own Tesla if you're spending that amount every week." That is true, but keep in mind that if you own your own Tesla to drive for Uber, you will now have a depreciation expense. If you need to default on your auto loan, you're on the hook for paying back the vehicle's depreciated value." 

"Second, I have no obligation to keep paying Hertz a rental fee. I can return the car if I don't want to pay this rental fee ($325+ per week) anymore. With an auto loan, I have an obligation to pay my car payment every month whether I'm working or not."

Key Considerations:

• Rental Costs: Factor in the cost of renting the Tesla from Hertz including insurance. 
• Depreciation: If you were to own a Tesla, you would be responsible for depreciation. 
• Loan Obligations: If you were to own a Tesla, you would be responsible for the loan payments. 

Reddit user axb2013 says, "It's more than $325 a week. It's closer to $400 a week with taxes and fees, and you want to get Uber insurance. The more you drive, the more at risk of damaging paint, windshield, or wheels."

Another Reddit user says, "I'm paying about $520 a week with the supercharging. It's not worth it, to be honest. Hertz makes it difficult to extend (going to the office, not answering the phone EVER ) at least in South Florida….. I'm only doing it because I don't own a car and have bad credit, but I'm starting to hate it."

Hertz says,

You can now rent a Tesla near you for $325/week. 

"Great news! Now, you can rent a 2021 or 2022 Tesla from Hertz to drive with Uber. Teslas qualify for the Zero Emissions incentive, allowing you to earn more through Uber Comfort trips."

Hertz Drive a Tesla and Earn More Program

• Get the Zero Emissions incentive: Drivers of fully electric vehicles (EVs) are eligible for Uber's Zero Emissions incentive and can earn an extra $210 after completing 200 eligible rides in an EV every 30 days for a limited time
• By driving a Tesla, you can qualify for Uber Comfort trips, which riders are willing to pay a little extra for. This opens up the potential for increased earnings.
• Stop paying for gas: Charging is typically much cheaper than gas—often less than half the cost!

Things To Know

1. Hertz rentals include insurance and basic maintenance

2. Weekly rentals allow you to rent for a short or longer amount of time. Do what works best for you.

3. Access Tesla's Supercharger network with thousands of fast-charging locations across the US. Add up to 200 miles of range in 15 minutes.

4. You can also save up to 45% on fast charging at EVgo charging sites with no monthly or session fees.³ EVgo has more than 850 fast-charging locations nationwide.

Who Is Eligible?

• Drivers who meet the following criteria can rent a Tesla from Hertz to drive on the Uber platform:
• Completed 1,000 Rides trips with Uber
• Maintain a driver rating of at least 4.9

Hertz/Tesla Program Details

Hertz says, "The Zero Emissions incentive is available every 30 days to eligible drivers in the U.S. for a limited time. The last day for a driver to be eligible to participate in the incentive is November 3, 2025, at 10 am PT. Until April 1, 2025, all cities' incentive amount is $210. Starting April 1, 2025, the incentive amount will vary by city."

For more details, go here. 

Conclusion:

Renting a Tesla from Hertz to drive for Uber can be a beneficial arrangement, especially for those who don't own a car or aspire to drive a Tesla. It offers the advantage of driving a premium car without the long-term commitment of ownership. However, it's crucial to carefully consider the rental costs, charging expenses, insurance, and potential earnings to ensure it's a financially viable option.

Here's a breakdown of factors to consider:

Rental Costs: Hertz Tesla rentals can be around $350-$450 per week, depending on the model and insurance. 

Charging Costs: Charging costs vary by location and can add up, especially if you charge frequently. 

Insurance: Insurance is a must-have for Uber driving and can add to the overall cost. 

Earnings Potential: Uber drivers need to make enough money to cover rental costs, charging expenses, insurance, and living expenses. 

Flexibility: Renting a Tesla allows you to drive a premium car without the long-term commitment of ownership, but it also means you're tied to a rental agreement. 

Alternatives: Consider the pros and cons of renting versus buying a car and other rental options or leasing a used car. 

Mileage: If you're planning to drive a lot, the cost of charging can be a significant factor. 

Maintenance: Renting a Tesla from Hertz means you won't have to worry about maintenance, but you'll still be responsible for any damage to the car. 

Uber's Premier Rides: Some users have mentioned that Tesla is not always the most popular choice for Premier rides, so you might not get the premium earnings you expect. 

Location: Charging costs and Uber demand vary significantly by location, so research your local market before deciding. 

How About You?

If you've rented a Tesla Model 3 or Model Y from Hertz to drive for Uber, we want to hear about your experience. Click the red 'Add New Comment' link below and share your insights. Your experience could be invaluable to others considering this option.

Check out my Tesla Model 3 story: My Son Bought a 2022 Tesla Model 3 From Hertz For a Ridiculous Price of $14K After Rebates, Clean CarFax and Only 5 Percent Battery Degradation

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl