Chrysler car hire firm moots ATM scheme

Car rental company Thrifty is considering introducing a hole-in-the-wall hire scheme which can verify driving licences and dispense keys.

The company, which is owned by Chrysler, has already installed the system in the US.

The six-foot high unit is designed to fit in secure areas, such as hotel receptions or international airports. It is linked to the company by telephone and video connections.

Customers show their driving licences for verification and give their credit card details over the phone. They sign a contract and then receive a key from the dispenser, with instructions about where to find the car.

According to Thrifty sales and marketing director Richard Ault, the system will be installed in areas where there is insufficient room for a car rental office.