Uber, BYD partner on enhanced EV adoption, autonomous vehicle deployment

Uber Technologies and Chinese automaker BYD recently announced a multi-year strategic partnership targeting to bring 100,000 new BYD electric vehicles onto the Uber platform across key global markets. 

Starting with the European and Latin American markets, the partnership is expected to offer Uber drivers access to affordable pricing and financing for BYD vehicles on the ride-hailing platform, with plans to expand further into the markets across the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. 

The companies aim to bring down the total cost of EV ownership for Uber drivers, thereby accelerating the uptake of EVs globally, and introducing millions of riders to greener, emission-free cab rides. Uber claims that its drivers are going electric five times faster than private car owners, driver surveys show the price of EVs and availability of financing remain the key barriers to switching. 

In addition to their affordability, BYD vehicles have lower costs of maintenance and repair. They are well suited to rideshare due to the wide range of models, superior battery performance, and excellent build quality, according to the Chinese manufacturer. 

Their joint efforts may also include discounts on charging, vehicle maintenance, insurance, financing and lease offers, based on what works best for drivers in a given market, they claimed, in their press release. 

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

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, commented, "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", he added. 

Further, the companies have also vowed to collaborate on future BYD autonomous-capable vehicles to be deployed on the Uber platform. As the largest on-demand mobility and delivery platform in the world, Uber claims to be well-positioned to bring autonomous vehicle technology to a global audience at scale.