CarRentals.com

Legal Name / Brand Names: CarRentals.com; Expedia, Inc. branding and ownership disclosures
Founded: 1998 (Acquired by Expedia, Inc. in March 2008)
Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (Expedia Group Corporate HQ)
Type: Brand within a public travel company (NASDAQ: EXPE)
Categories: Comparison site, online travel agency (OTA), car rental booking platform
Markets: Global
Parent: Expedia Group

Overview:

CarRentals.com holds strong standalone entity recognition in the online travel sector, distinguishing it from narrower comparison engines. Travelers search for the platform directly when seeking budget-friendly car rentals, supplier price comparisons, diverse vehicle categories, and destination-specific promotions. Official platform disclosures and site footers confirm that the brand operates as an integral component of Expedia, Inc. and Expedia Group, resolving common search queries regarding corporate ownership and operational backing.

Products and Services:

The platform functions as a comprehensive compare-and-book car rental aggregator. It compiles and presents real-time inventory across major international rental agencies, regional brands, and independent localized suppliers. The portal categorizes rental options by pick-up location, vehicle size class, and supplier terms, catering directly to broad discovery and price-conscious comparison shopping rather than brand-loyal bookings.

Geography and Markets:

CarRentals.com provides coverage across more than 29,000 pick-up locations in over 195 countries worldwide. This extensive international presence reinforces its role as a global comparison and distribution layer, connecting consumers directly with third-party fleet operators rather than managing a proprietary fleet of vehicles.

Ownership and Corporate Structure:

Originally established as an independent online agency in 1998, CarRentals.com was acquired by Expedia, Inc. in March 2008. Following the acquisition, it was integrated into Expedia Group’s travel ecosystem and initially managed under its discount travel portfolio (including Hotwire). Today, the platform leverages Expedia Group’s global technology infrastructure and supply network.

Some Key Dates:

– 1998: founded
– 2008: acquired by Expedia, Inc.
– 2018: unified under the renamed Expedia Group corporate entity
– 2026: actively operating as Expedia’s dedicated specialist rental comparison platform

(Sources: Company financial reports, SEC filings, official press releases, and reputable news outlets were used.)