BYD and Uber join forces in bid to introduce 100,000 electric ridehail vehicles onto the platform

Image credit: BYD

BYD, a prominent player in the electric vehicle (EV) market, has announced a significant multi-year partnership with Uber.

The collaboration aims to introduce 100,000 new BYD electric vehicles to the Uber platform across various global markets. Initially focusing on Europe and Latin America, the initiative will eventually extend to the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The primary goal is to reduce the overall cost of EV ownership for Uber drivers. By doing so, the companies hope to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, offering millions of riders a more environmentally friendly travel option.

Despite Uber drivers adopting electric vehicles at a rate five times faster than private car owners, cost and financing issues remain significant obstacles. BYD's vehicles are seen as well-suited for ridesharing purposes. The partnership promises to provide drivers with attractive pricing and financing options for BYD vehicles, making the transition to electric vehicles more accessible.

Further support for drivers may come in the form of discounts on charging, vehicle maintenance, and insurance, as well as financing and leasing offers tailored to local market conditions. Additionally, the collaboration will explore the deployment of BYD's autonomous-capable vehicles on the Uber platform, leveraging Uber's extensive global reach.

Chuanfu Wang, Chairman and President of BYD, said: "Uber and BYD share a commitment to innovate towards a cleaner, greener world, and I am excited to work together towards that future.”

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, said: “As the largest global agreement of its kind, we’re thrilled about the benefits this partnership will deliver for drivers, riders, and cities.

“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.”

Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD and CEO of BYD Americas, said: “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.”