I was offered the option of renting a Prius once, the rental car agent asked me if I wanted it when I arrived, she said that some people don't like them because they can take a while to get used too.

I loved it! When in stop-and-go traffic the electric engine took over and the car was totally silent and the gauge showed I was getting over 100 miles per gallon... totally cool.

Most rental companies now offer hybrids. Availability is pretty limited but in most major locations you will be able to specifically reserve a hybrid. Make sure you check the available car classes as they are separated out. Just a word of warning, they are more expensive plus some coupons and discounts do not work for hybrid vehicles.

I have been thinking about hiring a bike instead of cars for short distance travels while in a trip..that saves the gas bill for sure, is a good excercise and doesnt cost that much too....not to forget the eco friendly ride...

My friends just rented a car, the cheapest in the lot, and it turned out to be a Van! Since they consume so much gas, they offer the van for very cheap rental, at least here in NY.

I heard that some of the rental companies are providing hybrids as an option. I would definitely choose a hybrid over a "traditional" vehicle.

I have yet to see hybrids for rental cars yet, but the eco-friendly subject reminded me of the first time we rented from Enterprise, probably going on fifteen years ago. When we opened the trunk there was a large plastic bottle of Planet clothes detergent inside. We wondered if the last renter had left it there, it would have been taken out. We didn't think it could be another employee's clothes soap, so we decided it must be a little giftie for us for having the good sense to use Enterprise. Actually, the detergent was so good we have used alot of Planet products since then. We always use Enterprise whenever we can, so whether the Planet was meant for us or not, they've definitely made their money back on us.