BYD, a top manufacturer of electric vehicles and power batteries, has partnered with Uber to bring 100,000 new BYD electric vehicles to the Uber platform in Europe and Latin America. This partnership aims to provide Uber drivers with competitive pricing and financing options for BYD vehicles. The collaboration will later extend to markets in the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Uber and BYD are both leaders in the electric vehicle industry, with Uber boasting a widespread on-demand EV network and BYD being a global EV production leader. By teaming up, the companies hope to reduce the overall cost of owning an electric vehicle for Uber drivers, thus encouraging more drivers to switch to EVs and introducing riders to eco-friendly transportation options.
While Uber drivers are transitioning to electric vehicles at a rapid pace compared to private car owners, surveys indicate that the cost and availability of financing are major barriers to adoption. BYD vehicles are not only affordable but also have lower maintenance and repair costs, making them ideal for rideshare services. Additionally, BYD offers a variety of models with excellent battery performance and build quality.
To further support drivers in transitioning to electric vehicles, the partnership may include discounts on charging, maintenance, insurance, as well as financing and leasing options tailored to each market. The companies will also collaborate on deploying future BYD autonomous-capable vehicles on the Uber platform. As a global leader in on-demand mobility and delivery, Uber is well-equipped to introduce autonomous vehicle technology on a large scale.
Chuanfu Wang, Chairman and President of BYD, expressed enthusiasm about working with Uber to advance towards a cleaner world. Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, highlighted the environmental benefits of Uber drivers switching to electric vehicles, emphasizing the positive impact on emissions reduction. Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD and CEO of BYD Americas, emphasized the importance of making green transportation accessible and affordable for all.
The collaboration between Uber and BYD signifies a significant step towards the electrification of urban mobility. The partnership aims to make electric vehicles a common sight on the streets of cities worldwide, promoting sustainable transportation practices and reducing carbon emissions for a greener future.