BYD to supply 100,000 cars to Uber through new partnership

BYD, the world’s biggest EV and hybrid car maker, has signed a new deal with ride hailing service Uber to expand its zero-emissions fleet.

The multi-year partnership will see BYD supply up to 100,000 electric cars to Uber drivers across key markets. The companies will also work together on developing autonomous-capable vehicles for use on the Uber platform.

The firms said the deal aimed to bring down the price of EVs for Uber drivers. While Uber claims its drivers are going electric five times faster than private buyers, many still see the price of EVs and availability of finance as barriers to their adoption.

BYD, whose UK range includes the Seal, Dolphin and Atto 3, and Uber said that working together they will offer different support in different regions. These are likely to finance and leasing offers, and discounts on charging, vehicle maintenance and insurance.

The new partnership will start in Europe and Latin America before expanding into the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, said: “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.”

Stella Li, executive vice president of BYD, commented: “We are elated to join forces with a global leader like Uber to not only accelerate the transition to electric vehicles but also to make green transportation accessible and affordable for everyone. This collaboration marks a new era in the electrification of urban mobility, and we look forward to seeing our cutting-edge EVs become a common sight on the streets of cities worldwide.”

The companies also said that the partnership would see them collaborate on trying to develop self-driving-capable vehicles to be deployed on Uber’s network.