Rental cars are classified internationally according to the four-digit ACRISS code (also known as SIPP code or CRS code). The car rental classes in Germany, for example, are therefore identical to the car rental classes in the USA. The vehicle types, on the other hand, are different.
In addition to the ACRISS code, there are other auxiliary codes that are intended to make it easier for car rental staff to find suitable offers (e.g. one code for all minibuses, etc.). The car rental classification therefore follows a strictly regulated system.
The order of the four letters corresponds to the following structure: Category – Type – Gearbox – Fuel/air conditioning.
Some ACRISS codes with example models:
- ECMN (small car, 2–4 doors, manual gearbox, no air conditioning): e.g. Opel Corsa, VW Polo
- CDMR (Compact class, 4 doors, manual gearbox, air conditioning): e.g. Ford Focus, Renault Megane
- FWMR (upper mid-range, estate, manual gearbox): e.g. Audi A4 Avant, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, BMW 3 Series Touring
- CTMR (Compact class, convertible, manual gearbox, air conditioning): e.g. Mini Cooper convertible, VW Golf
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