Uber Technologies, Inc. and BYD Co. Ltd. have entered a partnership to bring 100,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) onto Uber’s platform globally.
This multi-year agreement initially targets Europe and Latin America, with plans to expand to the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The initiative aims to make EVs more accessible to Uber drivers through competitive pricing and financing options.
Uber, an on-demand mobility platform, and BYD, an EV manufacturer, seek to reduce the overall cost of EV ownership for drivers.
Despite Uber drivers adopting electric vehicles at a higher rate than private car owners, financial barriers are still a challenge. Providing affordable BYD models known for their great battery performance and lower maintenance costs, the partnership hopes to encourage more drivers to switch to electric.
Additional incentives under discussion include discounts on charging, vehicle maintenance, insurance, financing, and leasing. The companies are also exploring the integration of BYD’s autonomous-capable vehicles into Uber’s fleet, enhancing the prospect of self-driving technology on a global scale.
The partnership aligns with growing international actions to address climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through transportation electrification.
According to Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, transitioning to EVs allows drivers to deliver greatly higher emissions benefits due to their increased road presence. This partnership supports Uber’s goal to be emission-free in U.S. and Canadian cities by 2030 and also introduces millions of passengers to eco-friendly rides.
“As the largest global agreement of its kind, we’re thrilled about the benefits this partnership will deliver for drivers, riders, and cities,” said Dara Khosrowshahi.
“When an Uber driver makes the switch to an EV, they can deliver up to four times the emissions benefits compared to a regular motorist, simply because they are on the road more. Many riders also tell us their first experience with an EV is on an Uber trip, and we’re excited to help demonstrate the benefits of EVs to more people around the world.”
BYD’s executive team is positive about the collaboration. They noted its potential to accelerate urban mobility electrification and make sustainable transportation widely accessible.
“Uber and BYD share a commitment to innovate towards a cleaner, greener world, and I am excited to work together towards that future,” said Chuanfu Wang, chairman and president of BYD.
Stella Li, executive vice president of BYD and CEO of BYD Americas, also commented, “We are elated to join forces with a global leader like Uber to not only accelerate the transition to electric vehicles but also to make green transportation accessible and affordable for everyone. This collaboration marks a new era in the electrification of urban mobility, and we look forward to seeing our cutting-edge EVs become a common sight on the streets of cities worldwide.”
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