Uber teams up with ENSO to boost EV sustainability across UK and USA
Updated: Oct 14
Uber has announced a new strategic partnership with ENSO, a UK-based company that specialises in developing energy-efficient tyres for electric vehicles (EVs). The collaboration aims to expand ENSO’s reach internationally, with a focus on the UK and USA.
ENSO, a finalist of the prestigious Earthshot Prize, creates high-performance EV tyres designed to extend vehicle range while cutting down on tyre pollution. Over the next three years, Uber and ENSO will provide discounted tyres to thousands of drivers in both countries through a dedicated Buyer’s Club.
London, where Uber has established its global electrification hub, is at the forefront of this initiative. Almost 30% of Uber journeys in the capital are now fully electric. The company has invested £145 million into its Clean Air Fund, supporting drivers in transitioning to electric vehicles and contributing to its position as the largest on-demand EV network in the world.
ENSO’s ambitions are also growing, with plans to open a $500 million carbon-neutral tyre factory in the US by 2027. The factory will employ over 600 people and produce five million EV tyres annually, a significant step in scaling its operations.
This partnership marks the first time Uber has teamed up with an Earthshot Prize finalist. It is also part of Uber’s wider involvement with The Earthshot Prize, established by HRH Prince William. Uber, as a Founding Partner, will nominate climate tech start-ups for the annual £1 million prize, while finalists will gain access to mentorship from Uber’s engineering teams.
The announcement comes just before Uber’s second annual climate event, GO-GET Zero, set to take place in London. The event will introduce new features aimed at promoting sustainability for drivers, consumers, and merchants alike.
Jill Hazelbaker, CMO and SVP, Communications & Public Policy at Uber, said: “Innovation is in Uber’s DNA and much more is needed to tackle the climate crisis. That’s why we’re partnering with The Earthshot Prize to offer Uber’s platform as a launchpad for groundbreaking solutions globally – especially those working to accelerate an all-electric future for our planet. We’re thrilled to work with ENSO to help them grow while making it easier for Uber drivers to go electric around the world.”
Gunnlaugur Erlendsson, Founder and CEO of ENSO, said: “The world needs electric vehicles. They help combat climate change and eliminate harmful tailpipe pollution. ENSO’s mission is to make EVs more successful, by extending their range while reducing the pollution from their tires. Our goal is to provide EV drivers with more affordable, energy-efficient, longer-lasting, and ultimately carbon-neutral tires. This helps Uber drivers save costs and earn more revenue every mile, all while reducing the impact of tires on the environment.”
