GBT Sees Modest Growth in US Business Travel Car Rental Rates

Business travel car rental rates in the US and Canada are expected to rise by between 1.5% and 2% in 2026-27, according to a forecast from American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT).

The prediction is based on car rental activity within Amex GBT's corporate travel programs, and it suggests that improved fleet supply will limit pricing gains for rental companies. With new vehicle deliveries keeping pace with demand, rental companies are rebuilding their fleets to meet customer needs.

Rental operators continue to face challenges, however, including rising auto insurance costs, which may lead them to pass on some of these expenses to business travelers through higher rates. The cost of repairing vehicles equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems is also increasing due to the need for specialized labor and recalibration.

In addition, rental companies are experiencing softer residual values for their used vehicles, which can reduce disposal proceeds and increase pressure on fleet book values. This could contribute to higher business travel rental rates in the future.