Ride-hailing giant, Uber, has signed a multi-year deal with Chinese electric vehicle maker, BYD, to integrate 100,000 new EVs into Uber’s network.
The collaboration initially focused on Europe and Latin America leaving out Africa.
Uber drivers will now have easier access to EV ownership thanks to the deal’s appealing financing and price structures.
It is anticipated that the collaboration will spread to New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the Middle East.
This follows the global movement to electrify the transportation sector due to stricter emissions laws and growing worries about climate change. The adoption of EVs has been hindered by high vehicle costs and rising loan rates, despite growing interest in the technology.
Uber and BYD will offer drivers incentives such as maintenance discounts, charging benefits, and flexible financing options to accelerate the transition.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi underlined the potential environmental impact of drivers switching to EVs, emphasizing their increased time on the road compared to regular motorists.
“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,” Khosrowshahi said in a statement.
The collaboration will look into incorporating self-driving technology into BYD’s cars in addition to ride-hailing services. This news coincides with Tesla’s (BYD’s US rival) preparations for the October launch of their robotaxi.
Although Tesla regained its position as the largest EV manufacturer in the world last year, BYD had a brief lead. Uber and Tesla have a similar collaboration to encourage Uber drivers in the US to purchase electric vehicles.
