Henrico Small Business Spotlight: RVA Hot Wheelz

Slingshot auto rentals have become a popular choice for travelers and vacation-goers across the country, offering a unique way to explore new cities and create unforgettable memories. As the Richmond region continues to grow and expand, why not bring that same thrill home? Henrico-based RVA Hot Wheelz, the first and only Polaris Slingshot rental company in the region, aims to do just that — creating an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike while giving back to the community.

Daysha and Destiny Oliver, sisters born and raised in Richmond, made a groundbreaking decision two years ago to launch a business the region had never seen before.

“We were always interested in becoming entrepreneurs. We always had an entrepreneurial mindset,” says Daysha Oliver. Inspired by their travels to cities like Miami, Las Vegas, and California, where Slingshots are a common sight, they decided to introduce the experience to their hometown.

Their choice to start the business in Henrico was driven by more than just convenience; they saw immense growth potential in the area.

“A lot of people look at Richmond as this boring old city. [But] I think there’s opportunity everywhere. If you open your mind to opportunity, you’ll see it,” Daysha Oliver said. “Richmond is a growing city. We’re right here in the middle between D.C. and Virginia Beach. There’s so many opportunities with being in that in-between space.”

Though RVA Hot Wheelz clearly distinguishes itself through its Polaris Slingshot rentals, the Olivers hope customers remember more than that.

“What sets our business apart is pretty much how the Slingshots look and feel, and aside from the Slingshots, the experience you get at RVA Hot Wheelz,” Daysha Oliver said. “We make sure that all of our customers leave with something . . . just a little bit more to the point that they want to keep coming back. It’s just an experience like no other.”

The sisters have ambitious plans for RVA Hot Wheelz.

“Our vision is to continue to elevate the experience at RVA Hot Wheelz, to continue to become that powerhouse, to continue to provide that sense of fun and entertainment throughout the Richmond, Virginia area, and not only here but continue to expand,” Daysha Oliver said. “We look at RVA Hot Wheelz not only as our rental company or the experience within that but as a community hub where people can come together and come up with new ideas,” she explains.

Running a business is not without its challenges. The sisters quickly realized the importance of having a strong team to help keep everything running smoothly.

“We couldn’t be the accountant, we couldn’t be the social media manager or the director of operations,” Daysha Oliver said. “We had to outsource and hire new people who can bring on new ideas and creativity.”

On the flip side, one of the most rewarding aspects of their journey has been their mentorship program, a key component of RVA Hot Wheelz’s community involvement.

“When we do our mentorship with the youth and once they see the cars and they see that we’re the owners, and they’re like, ‘Oh my goodness, like I want to do something like that,'” Daysha Oliver said. The sisters have mentored students from the Metropolitan Business League, universities, and other schools, providing them with insights and inspiration.

This summer, the sisters are expanding their mentorship program to seek new mentees.

Community involvement is one of the pillars of RVA Hot Wheelz. The company frequently hosts events to bring people together and give back to the community.

“We’re planning on having cookouts here at our lot [on Old Hilliard Road, near the intersection of Hilliard Road and Staples Mill Road], car shows, block parties for the kids. We have a back-to-school drive coming up,” Oliver said.

In just two years, the two sisters and their business have become a vibrant addition to the region, as they attempt to redefine the auto rental experience while also inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.