UK-based electric vehicle (EV) startup, Arrival has announced its partnership with ride-hailing giant Uber, to work on an EV for the ride-hailing industry. Both the establishments will be working together to develop an affordable, purpose-built EV for ride-hailing drivers and will be designed in partnership with Uber drivers. The EV has been named 'Arrival Car' which is anticipated to enter production by the Q3 of 2023.
Arrival has requested Uber drivers to join the design process and guarantee the final vehicle meets their needs. The Arrival Car will address the global need to shift ride-hailing and car-sharing services, with over 30 million estimated drivers across the ride-hailing sector. Uber has dedicated to becoming a fully electric mobility platform in London by 2025 and by 2030 across North America and Europe, on the other.
As per the company statement, the Arrival Car will join Arrival's formerly announced commercial products, the Bus and Van to meet their sustainability goals over the coming years.
"We are confident that electrifying ride-hailing vehicles will have an outsized impact on cities, and we are keen to support drivers as they manage this transition. Arrival Car will be designed around drivers' needs to create a vehicle that is affordable, durable, and desirable," says Tom Elvidge, SVP Arrival Mobility UK.
Tom added on the partnership, "We have a great partnership with UPS to create a best-in-class electric delivery vehicle, and we hope to replicate that success with Uber as we develop the best possible product for ride-hailing that elevates the experience of the passenger and improves drivers' health, safety, and finances."