Uber to Add 100,000 New Electric Cars Worldwide, Not Including Africa

Uber’s Global Electric Car Expansion: Uber Technologies, Inc. and BYD Co. Ltd. have entered a partnership to bring 100,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) onto Uber’s platform globally, except in Africa.

This multi-year collaboration 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’s Global Electric Car Expansion

The partnership aligns with Uber’s resolution that all vehicles operating on its platform globally must be fully electric by 2040.

This deal with BYD is therefore one step in the right direction as it aims to make electric vehicle ownership more accessible for Uber drivers through affordable pricing and financing options.

BYD, China’s largest EV maker, has fast been expanding its reach into world markets after switching entirely to the production of EVs and hybrids in 2022.

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.

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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.

Reasons Behind The Uber’s Global Electric Car Expansion

The partnership also 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.

He said, “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.”

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.