A Guide to Renting and Driving an Electric Car in Iceland

Thinking about exploring Iceland by car? Before you settle on a petrol-powered vehicle, you might want to consider something a bit different — and potentially game-changing. More and more travellers are opting to rent electric cars in Iceland, and there are some compelling reasons why. But is it really the best choice for your trip?

From Iceland’s powerful waterfalls and volcanic plains to its scenic coastal roads and high-tech infrastructure, there are a few factors that might make an electric car the perfect match for your adventure. Or not. That’s exactly what we’ll help you decide.

In this guide, we’ll unpack what it’s like to drive an electric car in Iceland. You’ll discover the pros (and a few possible cons), how the charging system works, which routes are ideal, what kind of cars are available, and practical tips for planning your trip. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or a total beginner, we’ll help you figure out if an electric car rental fits your travel style — and your itinerary.

Rent an Electric Car in Iceland Now

Should You Rent an Electric Car in Iceland?

Renting an electric car in Iceland comes with numerous benefits that make it a top choice for many travellers:

• Lower fuel costs, since electricity is significantly cheaper than petrol or diesel in Iceland
• Plenty of charging stations across both popular routes and off-the-beaten-path destinations
• A more sustainable and environmentally friendly travel option that aligns with Iceland’s eco-conscious culture
• Advanced safety features, especially in premium models like Tesla
• Excellent range that easily supports long-distance drives around the country

Thanks to Iceland's relatively compact size and robust infrastructure, getting around on a single charge is surprisingly simple. A Tesla Model Y with a full charge, for example, can take you up to 400 miles (around 640 km), which is often enough to cover a full day’s journey or more without stopping to recharge.

If you’re budget-minded or an environmentally conscious traveller, choosing an EV aligns with both your financial goals and values. Plus, it adds a modern twist to your Icelandic adventure.

When Might an EV Not Be the Right Fit?

While EVs work great for most trips around Iceland, they’re not ideal for every situation. You may want to consider an alternative if:

• You're planning to explore the Highlands or drive on F-roads
• You're staying in very remote areas without charging infrastructure

In those cases, a hybrid or petrol-powered 4x4 vehicle might give you more flexibility.

Types of Electric Cars in Iceland

When choosing your vehicle, it’s important to understand the three main types of electric or semi-electric cars available in Iceland:

1. Electric cars (EVs): These vehicles run entirely on electricity. They are efficient, smooth to drive, and produce zero emissions.
2. Hybrids: These combine a traditional petrol engine with a smaller electric motor. They often switch between electric and fuel depending on speed or power needs.
3. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs): These are similar to hybrids but offer more electric range and can be plugged in to recharge. They provide peace of mind for longer trips or uncertain terrain.

Electric cars and PHEVs are increasingly popular among tourists and locals alike. So how many other electric cars will you see on the road if you're driving one in Iceland? According to one source, in 2022, about 70% of newly registered vehicles in Iceland were electric. This figure places Iceland second globally, just behind Norway, in the adoption of new electric cars.

However, that 70% only reflects new car registrations. The broader picture, as reported by the Statistics Agency of Iceland, shows that in 2023, approximately 12% of all registered vehicles in the country were electric or hybrid. While this is still a smaller proportion overall, the rapid increase in new EVs clearly signals the country’s shift toward sustainable transport. If you’re driving an electric car in Iceland, you definitely won’t be alone on the road.

Charging an Electric Car in Iceland

Where Can You Charge?

Charging an electric car in Iceland is straightforward, thanks to a well-developed national charging infrastructure. You can find stations in cities, towns, rural communities, hotels, and even remote guesthouses. The primary providers include:

• ON Power
• Isorka
• Charge and Drive
• Tesla Superchargers

We recommend downloading the ON app, which provides real-time updates on station availability, charging speed, and compatibility. Check out all of the charging stations before you head out on the road — it’s one of the best ways to stay prepared and plan your stops efficiently.  You can also read more about EV charging stations in Iceland here for additional details.

Types of Charging

There are three common types of EV chargers in Iceland:

• AC (22 kW): Best suited for overnight or slow charges. Found mostly in Reykjavík, hotel car parks, and urban areas.
• DC (50 kW): Quicker charging found along the Ring Road and in most large towns.
• Tesla Superchargers (225 kW): Ultra-fast chargers exclusive to Tesla vehicles. Perfect for quick top-ups between destinations.

Charging Costs (2025 Rates)

• AC (22 kW): around 30 ISK/kWh (about €0.21 or $0.24)
• DC (50 kW): around 50 ISK/kWh (about €0.35 or $0.40)
• Supercharge (225 kW): around 65 ISK/kWh (about €0.46 or $0.52)

So what does that mean in real terms? If you're driving a Tesla Model Y with a 75 kWh battery, a full charge using a DC 50 kW fast charger would cost approximately 3,750 ISK — that’s roughly €26 or $30. Depending on road and weather conditions, this could give you up to 640 km of driving range.

Now compare that to a petrol or diesel vehicle. If you rent a 4x4 with an average 60-litre tank, filling it up at around 305 ISK per litre would cost you about 18,300 ISK — or roughly €129 or $148. That’s over four times the cost of fully charging an electric car, making EVs a significantly more cost-effective option for road trips around Iceland.

Charging Time

The time it takes to charge your electric vehicle depends on the charger and battery size:

• Superchargers: Around 20–40 minutes to 80%
• DC fast chargers: 60–90 minutes
• AC chargers: 6–10 hours

It’s smart to charge your car overnight at your accommodation or during extended sightseeing stops to avoid downtime.

Payment Options

Charging payment methods may vary depending on the car rental company. At Lava Car Rental, we offer two convenient options:

1. Supercharger Option: Add this when booking and receive a charging tag. It gives you access to free charging at all Tesla Superchargers and ON/Isorka stations. No apps or cards needed.
2. Pay-as-you-go:For flexibility, use provider apps to locate and pay for charging sessions with a credit card. Please note: if you're driving a Tesla, you won't be able to pay directly by card at the Superchargers. Instead, any charging costs will be calculated and added to your final bill at drop-off by Lava Car Rental.

Charging Cables

• All EVs come with a Type 2 charging cable, compatible with most public AC stations.
• DC and Tesla Superchargers have integrated CCS Combo 2 cables, so no need to carry your own.

You’ll be fully equipped for charging at every step of your Iceland adventure.

Driving an Electric Car in Iceland

Driving an electric vehicle around Iceland is much like driving any modern automatic car. It’s comfortable, quiet and intuitive — but there are a few Iceland-specific considerations:

• Stick to paved roads: EVs are not built for Iceland’s rugged F-roads or highland routes, which require high-clearance 4x4s.
• Use a 4x4 in winter: Winter roads can be icy and windy. Renting a 4x4 EV ensures better traction and safety.
• Avoid deep gravel or unmaintained roads: The low undercarriage of EVs makes them more vulnerable to underbody damage.

Tesla models, particularly the Model Y, are well-suited to Iceland’s conditions. With excellent handling, stability, and safety features, they offer a worry-free and luxurious driving experience.

Where Can You Go with an Electric Car in Iceland?

Electric vehicles are ideal for exploring many of Iceland's most iconic and accessible destinations. Their impressive range and Iceland's growing charging network mean you're free to roam confidently across the island.

EVs are perfect for visiting:

• The Ring Road (Route 1): A full loop around the island, this is one of the best road trips in the world, offering access to waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and fishing villages.
• Golden Circle: Featuring Þingvellir National Park, the erupting geysers of Haukadalur, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, this short loop is easily manageable on a single charge.
• South Coast: Travel past Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Plenty of charging points are scattered throughout the region.
• North Iceland: Explore charming Akureyri, whale-watching towns like Húsavík, and the otherworldly volcanic landscapes near Lake Mývatn.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Often described as "Iceland in miniature," this region offers lava fields, sea cliffs, waterfalls, and the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano.

You’ll find charging stations in most towns along these routes, allowing for smooth and flexible trip planning. Whether you’re doing day trips or embarking on a multi-day adventure, an EV can handle it.

However, avoid venturing into the Highlands or driving on F-roads. These rugged tracks are not suitable for electric vehicles due to their uneven surfaces and water crossings. Insurance policies typically exclude coverage for EVs on these routes, and damage to the battery system can be costly. If you plan to explore remote or highland terrain, a petrol 4x4 may be more suitable.

Renting an Electric Car from Lava Car Rental

Lava Car Rental offers a modern fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles designed for Icelandic roads and seasons:

• Fully Electric:
• Tesla Model Y: Spacious, AWD, long range
• Tesla Model 3: Sleek, efficient, great for city and scenic drives
• Hybrids:
• Toyota Rav4: Reliable and fuel-efficient with 4x4 capability
• Suzuki Vitara: Compact and versatile

Why choose Lava Car Rental?

• Included insurance with coverage tailored to Iceland’s conditions
• Unlimited mileage so you can explore as far as you want
• Free shuttle from Keflavik International Airport
• Friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to help with route planning

Practical Tips for Travelling with an Electric Car in Iceland

• Plan your charging stops ahead of time: Use apps like ON, PlugShare, or Tesla’s built-in navigation to map out charging stations near your route and accommodations.
• Charge overnight: When possible, choose hotels or guesthouses that offer EV charging so you can start each day with a full battery.
• Top up when you can: Don’t wait until your battery is low — take advantage of chargers whenever you're stopped for a meal, sightseeing, or a bathroom break.
• Watch the weather: Cold temperatures can reduce battery range. Drive conservatively and keep your charging needs flexible in winter.
• Know your charger types: Use AC chargers for overnight charging and DC fast chargers for quick top-ups during the day.
• Carry your charging cable: Always keep the Type 2 cable provided in your rental vehicle — you may need it at some AC stations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I rent an electric car in winter?

Yes, but we recommend choosing a 4x4 electric vehicle for extra stability and traction in snowy or icy conditions. Always check road and weather forecasts before heading out.

What happens if I run out of charge?

It’s very unlikely if you plan ahead. Use apps like ON and PlugShare to locate charging stations. Still concerned? Consider renting a plug-in hybrid for added flexibility.

Can I charge my EV anywhere in Iceland?

Most towns and popular routes have chargers. However, the remote areas may lack infrastructure, so plan your route accordingly.

Do I need special cables or adapters?

No. All Lava electric rentals include a Type 2 cable for AC charging. Fast chargers and Tesla Superchargers have built-in cables compatible with your vehicle.

How do I pay for charging?

If you add the Supercharger Option when booking with Lava Car Rental, charging is included. Otherwise, you can use charging apps or, for Teslas, charges will be billed at drop-off.

Are electric cars hard to drive?

Not at all. They drive like any modern automatic car. Teslas, in particular, offer smooth acceleration, quiet driving, and advanced safety features.

Plan Your Eco-Friendly Trip in Iceland

Iceland is a global leader in clean energy, with nearly 100% of its electricity sourced from renewable resources like geothermal and hydropower. Driving an electric or hybrid vehicle while visiting this stunning country is one of the best ways to honour and support its green initiatives.

Explore our electric fleet today and take the first step toward a cleaner, quieter, and more comfortable Icelandic road trip. From savings at the charging station to reducing your carbon footprint, going electric just makes sense.

Rent an Electric Car in Iceland Now