The new Maui car rental facility has just opened. A one-third billion dollar solar powered, consolidated facility was dedicated and began operations last week. This project is unique in Hawaii, including the terminal, tram transportation, project scope, and funding.
The new facility consolidates all rental companies in one spot and connects passengers via an innovative electric tram. It was completed over the past three years and did not require any taxpayer money. Governor David Ige said “the best part is this is funded with no taxpayer dollars involved.” It was funded in its entirety by Maui car rental customers, who pay a fee of $4.50 per day in the form of a state customer facility fee. Maui’s airport is the largest in terms of rental car income, while Honolulu International Airport has the greatest air traffic volume in Hawaii.
HNL car rental facility is next. A similar facility, funded in the same manner, is now being built at Honolulu International Airport and is expected to be completed in 2021.
Large facility. In terms of size, the new 4-level Maui car rental facility has space for 1,817 ready to rent and returned vehicles, and room for an additional 1,926 storage spots, plus employee parking. Mechanic, fuel and washing facilities are also included.
Innovative trams. The two new free-to-use electric trains, each accommodate a total of 76 passengers in two cars. Trams operate on a rail and are designed in the plantation style. The trains will eliminate more than two dozen prior shuttle buses. We can’t help but wonder what happened to the jobs of the shuttle bus drivers.
New visitor lobby. The facility includes a $3 million main water feature with pools and waterfall, and a large train clock.
Stops en route. There are two airport stops and one at the Maui car rental facility, which is about 1/2 mile away. The tram takes about six minutes, and will operate from about 6am to 11pm, depending on flight schedules.
Work in process. Beat of Hawaii friend Honey Ward was there on the first day and said: “Just yesterday they opened the car rental nest at Maui airport. Every company is in there and you ride these old fashioned looking trams to the terminal. If you are flying to a neighbor island on a commuter airline, leave your luggage and extra people at commuter terminal before returning car – the new tram doesn’t go there and it’s more of a walk than we would have preferred with our bags. It’s a good innovation, and the kinks will be worked out soon.”
Photo courtesy of Hawaii DOT.
So disappointed. It’s October so there is now excuse for the zoo this facility has become since opening. If you arrive mid day be prepared for a very long hot multi tram wait to get on the tram.Then a hot steamy short ride with nowhere for luggage but rolling around bumping into people. We had switched to Alamo years ago because they always seemed to have lots of staff and counters open so the typical 2 plus hour wait for a car at most agencies was usually 15 min or less. Not anymore. Long long line with very few counters. Cant add more staff at busy times even if they wanted as there is no counter space. What a great idea. Make your customers pay directly for your store. Cut your staff and fire your shuttle drivers and treat your customers like sheep. What a terrible experience compared to previous dozens of rentals. I hope we can find another way to get a car in Maui.
Is thrifty rental in the new place? My mom guys didn’t know. They usually pick me up at the airport when I come home, but this time I got one car and they don’t know where the new place is at and they neva see ThriftY listed in the phone book.I coming home tomorrow, 23 May. Mahaloz.
Hi Gail.
Yes they are.
Aloha.
Does anyone know if the Hertz still has the Gold Canopy at the new location? Also, has anyone walked from the arrivals terminal to the car rental facility? It seems that the tram could take a long time when the big planes arrive if it only holds 76 people.
Does Sixt exist in this new facility?
Just an FYI…join every frequent renter group you can for a more efficient pick up of your vehicle. There is no charge for membership. Most agencies have a “preferred” line for members. We usually speed thru the rental lines.
New place is nice…….
But DONT RENT FROM BUDGET…… 2 Hour wait. They dont staff enough to handle the people…
Maybe they can use some of the old bus drivers to help at the counter, it could be a win win.
Can you please tell me if SIXT has relocated to this new Maui Facility? Mahalo!
Hi Sue.
We do not see them listed in the new facility, so you may want to inquire.
Aloha.