(Reuters) – Uber and Chinese automaker BYD announced a multi-year partnership on Wednesday aimed at bringing 100,000 new electric vehicles to the ride-hailing platform globally. Consequently, Uber BYD global EVs will offer enhanced efficiency and sustainability. #UberBYDGlobalEVs
The partnership, starting in Europe and Latin America, will offer drivers accessible pricing and financing for BYD’s EVs on the Uber platform and will expand to markets in the Middle East, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, the companies said.
Uber’s shares rose about 2.5% in premarket trading.
High sticker prices for electric vehicles and increased borrowing costs have acted as barriers to EV adoption over the past two years, causing demand for such vehicles to grow at a slower-than-expected pace.
Escalating climate change concerns and the pressing need to cut greenhouse gas emissions have given a boost to the global push for electrification in the transportation sector.
Uber and BYD will offer drivers discounts on vehicle maintenance, charging, financing and leasing, depending on the market, to support the transition to electric vehicles.
“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,” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said.
The companies added they will work together to integrate BYD’s vehicles with self-driving technologies onto the ride-hailing platform. #UberBYDGlobalEVs
BYD’s U.S rival Tesla is set to unveil its robotaxi product in October as it to looks to pivot after EV sales fell in the first two quarters of the year.
Additionally, this move reflects a broader trend towards sustainable urban mobility solutions. With Uber BYD global EVs, passengers can look forward to an improved riding experience, supported by cutting-edge technology.
