Tesla is preparing to expand its direct-to-consumer vehicle rental program to the U.S. Midwest, with a new application filed to launch the service in Michigan. While the program is not yet live in the state, the filing signals that Tesla is actively working to broaden access after strong early demand in California.
The rental program, which first appeared at select locations in Southern California earlier this year, offers a compelling alternative to traditional car rentals — and even to short demo drives. Renters can take home a Tesla for up to seven days, with unlimited mileage, free Supercharging, and Full Self-Driving (Supervised) included at no extra cost. (via Sawyer Merritt)
Pricing and Vehicle Lineup
If approved in Michigan, pricing is expected to mirror what was offered in California:
- Model 3/Model Y: $60 per day
- Cybertruck: $75 per day
- Model S/Model X: $90 per day
Only Premium trims have been offered so far, with Standard and Performance variants excluded, and rentals are capped at seven days.
FSD and Supercharging Included
Every rental includes access to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system, giving drivers hands-on exposure to the company’s latest autonomy software in real-world conditions. Combined with unlimited free Supercharging across the U.S., the program removes two of the biggest friction points typically associated with EV rentals: charging costs and range anxiety.
Renters manage the vehicle entirely through the Tesla app, just like owners. This includes unlocking the car, monitoring charging, adjusting climate controls, and tracking vehicle location — all of which reinforce the ownership-like experience Tesla is aiming to deliver.
Try Before You Buy — With a Credit
To further encourage conversions, Tesla offers a $250 purchase credit to renters who place an order for a new vehicle within seven days of returning their rental. The incentive effectively turns the program into an extended test drive, allowing potential buyers to evaluate a Tesla in their daily routine rather than during a brief showroom visit.
Expansion Plans and Availability
Although some online claims suggested the rental program in California had ended, Tesla has clarified that the pilot locations simply reached capacity, with demand exceeding supply, and that they were working to expand to more locations.
For now, Tesla has not announced a launch date for Michigan or confirmed which locations within the state would host the program.
