Be.EV and Uber sign exclusive charging discount deal

Uber drivers in England’s North West will be able to enjoy cheaper ultra-rapid charging through a new partnership between the ride-hailing service and Be.EV.

The 12-month pilot scheme will see Manchester-based Be.EV offering discounted rates at peak and off-peak times to Uber drivers who use pure-electric models.

The two companies say that the tie-up will provide lower and more predictable charging costs for drivers who rely on public infrastructure, and help support drivers with chargers in locations that match their varied routes and needs.

“We’re proud to be partnering with Uber on a deal that’s focused on fairness,” says Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV.

“Public charging has to work for people who earn their living on the road – especially those without a driveway.

“This pilot shows what can happen when you treat charging as essential infrastructure for working people, not a luxury.

“We’re investing heavily in the North West and expanding nationally, and this is a big step in the right direction for drivers who need reliable charging at a better, more predictable price.”

Andrew Brem, general manager for Uber UK, added: “Uber is all-in on electric – EVs are better for our drivers, because they can save money by eliminating fuel costs, and better for our cities as EVs mean healthier air for everyone.

“We know that accessibility to electric chargers is one of the biggest barriers to getting drivers to switch to EVs, so this partnership with Be.EV is a brilliant way for us to support drivers in the North West to make the transition to cleaner vehicles.”

The trial scheme will apply across all Be.EV’s fast, rapid and ultra-rapid chargers in the North West. Eligible drivers will be sent a sign-up process by Uber and those who opt-in will get special off-peak overnight pricing and reduced rates at peak times. Be.EV will also waive the usual monthly membership fee for eligible drivers during the pilot.

Be.EV currently operates 200 charging sites across the UK, with a heavy concentration in and around Manchester, where the operator was founded. With more than £100m of backing from Octopus Energy Generation and £55 million in debt facilities from NatWest and KfW IPEX-Bank, it plans to continue its expansion nationwide in the coming years.