Vehicles with special configurations are rental cars that have adaptations or additional equipment to meet specific needs, such as driving on challenging terrain, transporting people with disabilities, or ensuring more security.
The main categories include 4x4 vehicles, adapted for people with disabilities, armored vehicles, and vehicles with winter/snow tires.
Note: at Rentcars, we work with categories, which represent the general type of vehicle available for reservation. Vehicle groups, on the other hand, are internal classifications used by rental companies to organize their own fleet. For this reason, you will see categories on our website and app, while groups may appear only as a reference when provided by rental companies.
When does it make sense to choose each type of vehicle?
4x4: ideal for trips in rural areas, to beaches, or in the mountains.
Adapted: essential for clients with disabilities or their companions.
Armored: recommended for those seeking additional security in urban centers.
Snow tires: mandatory in many destinations during the winter.
What are 4x4 vehicles?
4x4 vehicles (also called 4WD or four-wheel drive) have a transmission system that distributes the engine's power to all four wheels, not just two as in conventional cars.
Where to use them: muddy, sandy, flooded, steep, or hard-to-access roads.
Characteristics: more robust suspension and steering, greater off-road capability.
Note: because they are heavier and more powerful, they tend to consume more fuel than common cars.
How to search?
To identify this type of vehicle, look for the "Special" category and check if the title indicates "4x4". Remember: 4x4 vehicles are subject to availability and may not appear in all searches.
What are armored vehicles?
Armored cars are designed to offer extra protection against certain threats. They are used by those seeking more security, whether for executive or personal transport.
Armoring includes: ballistic steel, bulletproof glass, puncture-resistant tires.
Benefit: more security and protection for the occupants.
How to find them?
Some rental companies in Brazil offer specific groups. On the Rentcars website and app, you can search in the SUV category.
Localiza: Group T or TG
Movida: Group T
Unidas: Group BL
What are vehicles with snow tires or chains?
These are vehicles prepared to face winter conditions, when snow, ice, or low temperatures make driving riskier.
Winter Tires: made of a special rubber compound that remains soft in temperatures below 7°C, ensuring better grip on roads with snow, ice, or low traction.
Snow Chains: an additional accessory used in situations of heavy snow. They are temporarily installed over the common tires to increase traction on more critical stretches.
Important: Unlike winter tires, snow chains are physical accessories installed as needed. If there is no option to add them in advance on the Rentcars website, availability must be checked and the fee paid directly at the rental counter.
Period and Benefits
Recommended Period: generally from October to March in European countries, North America (such as the United States and Canada), and also in specific regions of South America, such as southern Chile and Argentina.
Benefits: greater safety, stability, and control on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads.
How to find them?
Availability and the way of contracting vary greatly among rental companies.
Inclusion in the package: Some rental companies already include the cost of winter tires in the rental price, especially in regions where they are mandatory.
Optional: in other cases, rental companies offer tires or snow chains as an extra item, for an additional fee.
Example: in the United States, some regions require chains on specific roads during snowstorms; in Argentina and Chile, when crossing the Andes Mountains in winter, it is often mandatory to have chains available in the vehicle.
On the Rentcars website, for example, you can select the option to include this item as an extra during the reservation, before proceeding to payment, if the partner rental company offers it.
Pay attention to local legislation: The use of winter tires or chains varies according to the destination: in Europe, it is usually mandatory between October and March; in the US and Canada, it depends on the state or province; and in South American countries, like Chile and Argentina, it may be required in mountain or border regions. Always check the local rules to avoid fines and ensure your safety.
Below, we will show some examples that may appear across different digital platforms.
On the website:
In the app:
What are vehicles adapted for people with disabilities?
These are vehicles equipped and modified to meet the mobility needs of people with disabilities (PWDs). These adaptations promote autonomy, safety, and comfort for both the driver and passengers.
Possible adaptations: Manual accelerator and brake. Adapted steering wheel. Lever or voice commands. Assistive steering systems.
How to request?
Currently, it is not possible to book adapted vehicles directly through the Rentcars website.
To ensure availability, it is necessary to contact the rental company at the time of booking. This way, you can confirm if the adapted model will be available on the desired date.
Although the reservation cannot be made through our website, Rentcars can help with information about which rental companies offer this type of vehicle and direct you to the best option.
Examples of rental companies:
Unidas: Renault Fluence Group AD or similar (air conditioning, power steering, manual/automatic transmission).
Hertz: provides information on its website, depending on the location.
Movida: Spin Group E – Adapted Automatic Minivan (air conditioning, power steering, automatic transmission).
Are there additional costs for vehicles with special configurations?
Yes. Vehicles with special configurations generally have differentiated rates, which may include: Higher daily rates. Specific extra fees. A higher security deposit (cautionary deposit).
Why is it worth considering vehicles with special configurations?
We understand that every trip is unique and that your needs go beyond a common car. Therefore, by considering a vehicle with special configurations, you are investing in safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Do not hesitate to ask, research, and confirm every detail. Your adventure begins with the right choice, and we are here to help you find the perfect car for your itinerary.