BYD has announced a multi-year strategic partnership with Uber to introduce 100,000 new BYD electric vehicles onto the Uber platform across key global markets. Starting in Europe and Latin America, the partnership will provide drivers with access to competitive pricing and financing for BYD vehicles and will later expand to the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand.
While Uber drivers are adopting EVs five times faster than private car owners, the cost and financing availability of EVs remain significant barriers. BYD’s vehicles, known for their affordability, lower maintenance costs, and suitability for rideshare, aim to address these issues with their range of models, superior battery performance, and excellent build quality.
The two companies will also work together on future BYD autonomous-capable vehicles for the Uber platform. As the largest on-demand mobility and delivery platform globally, Uber is well-positioned to bring autonomous vehicle technology to a wide audience at scale.
“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.
“As the largest global agreement of its kind, we’re thrilled about the benefits this partnership will deliver for drivers, riders, and cities,” said Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber. “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 and CEO of BYD Americas, also 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.”
