Understanding ACRISS classification, industry players, and emerging luxury rental trends
Introduction
The global car rental industry has transformed dramatically over the past decade. What was once a straightforward service offering basic transportation has evolved into a sophisticated ecosystem with standardized classification systems, diverse market segments, and specialized niches catering to every type of traveler. Whether you’re a budget-conscious tourist, a business executive, or someone seeking an exotic driving experience, understanding how the industry operates helps you make better rental decisions.
This guide explores the standards that govern the car rental industry, profiles the major players across different segments, and examines emerging trends reshaping how we rent vehicles in 2025 and beyond.
ACRISS: The Industry Standard for Vehicle Classification
The Association of Car Rental Industry Systems Standards (ACRISS) serves as the primary governing body for car rental standards in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Founded in 1989 by Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz, ACRISS was reconstituted as a European Economic Interest Grouping (EEIG) in 1992 to establish unified standards across the industry.
The organization’s most significant contribution is the ACRISS Car Classification Code — a four-character system that standardizes how vehicles are categorized globally. Each character represents a specific attribute: vehicle category (size and class), body type (sedan, SUV, convertible), transmission type (manual or automatic), and fuel/air conditioning status. This system enables travelers to compare vehicles across different rental companies with confidence.
Current ACRISS Membership (2025)
ACRISS membership includes three categories: full members (car rental companies), technology associates, and subscribers. As of 2025, the membership roster reflects the industry’s major players:
Car Rental Company Members: Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, National, Dollar, Thrifty, Maggiore, Payless, Green Motion International, and Apex Car Rentals.
Technology Associates: Amadeus, Sabre, Travelport, Booking.com (operating Rentalcars.com), Discover Cars, Expedia, Navan, and Skyscanner (joined May 2025).
Subscribers: Car Rental Gateway.
The inclusion of major global distribution systems (GDS) like Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport alongside online travel agencies demonstrates ACRISS’s role in facilitating seamless booking experiences across platforms.
Understanding Car Rental Market Segments
The car rental market operates across distinct segments, each serving different customer needs and price points. Understanding these segments helps travelers choose the right provider for their requirements.
Budget Segment
Companies like Thrifty, Dollar, and Payless focus on price-sensitive leisure travelers. These operators maintain efficient fleets of economy and compact vehicles, typically positioning locations at airports and major transit hubs. The budget segment accounts for approximately 35% of rental transactions by volume in mature markets like the United States.
Midrange Segment
The industry’s backbone consists of full-service providers including Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Europcar. These companies offer comprehensive vehicle selections, loyalty programs, and extensive location networks. Enterprise Holdings (operating Enterprise, National, and Alamo) maintains over 10,000 locations worldwide, making it the largest car rental company globally by fleet size.
Premium Segment
Premium services within traditional rental companies offer enhanced vehicle options and expedited service. Hertz’s Prestige Collection, Avis Signature Series, and similar programs provide access to luxury vehicles like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi models through established rental networks.
Luxury and Exotic Car Rental
The fastest-growing segment serves high-net-worth individuals, tourists seeking unique experiences, and special occasions. Unlike traditional rental companies that add premium vehicles to existing fleets, specialized exotic car rental agencies focus exclusively on supercars, sports cars, and ultra-luxury vehicles.
This segment thrives particularly in tourism-heavy luxury destinations. Dubai has emerged as a global hub for exotic car rental, with companies like Octane Rent offering fleets that include Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley models. The Middle East luxury car rental market benefits from year-round tourism, a culture celebrating automotive excellence, and infrastructure designed for high-performance vehicles.
Other prominent luxury rental markets include Miami, Los Angeles, Monaco, and Singapore — each attracting clientele seeking memorable driving experiences rather than basic transportation.
Emerging Trends Reshaping Car Rental
Electric Vehicle Integration
ACRISS has responded to the EV transition by updating its classification codes to include specific designations for electric and hybrid vehicles. Green Motion International, an ACRISS member focused on lower-emission rentals, exemplifies this shift. Major players including Hertz have announced significant EV fleet investments, though implementation timelines have been adjusted based on charging infrastructure development.
Contactless Rental Technology
Post-pandemic acceleration of digital check-in, mobile keys, and automated return processes has become standard across major operators. ACRISS has published contactless rental guidelines to standardize these experiences across member companies.
Subscription and Flexible Mobility
Traditional daily rental models now compete with subscription services offering monthly vehicle access without long-term commitments. Companies like Europcar (through Ubeeqo) and various manufacturer programs blur the lines between rental, leasing, and ownership.
Conclusion
The car rental industry continues evolving to meet diverse traveler needs. From ACRISS-standardized economy cars to exotic supercars in Dubai, the market offers options for every requirement and budget. Understanding industry standards, major players, and emerging trends empowers travelers to make informed decisions — whether renting a compact car for airport pickup or a Lamborghini for a special occasion.
As the industry adapts to electrification, digital transformation, and changing consumer preferences, both traditional rental companies and specialized providers will continue innovating to deliver seamless mobility experiences worldwide.
Sources
- ACRISS Official Website – Our Members, Associates and Subscribers (acriss.org)
- ACRISS Car Classification Code Standards
- Enterprise Holdings Corporate Information
- Octane Rent
- Hertz Global Holdings Annual Reports
