Uber continues its commitment to achieving a zero-emissions platform by 2040, rolling out a series of innovative features and updates aimed at making greener choices more accessible for riders, drivers, and merchants. Building on its promise set four years ago, Uber has now introduced over 182,000 electric vehicles (EVs) on its platform, with drivers adopting EVs at a rate five times faster than the average motorist across the US, Canada, and Europe.
Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “While progress has been made, we need both public and private sectors to act with greater urgency to help repair our planet.”
For Riders:
All-Electric Uber Green: Uber is expanding its EV-only ride options to 40+ cities worldwide, allowing riders to choose an electric ride for the same price as UberX.
EV Preference: A new feature allows riders to select an EV preference and be matched with an electric vehicle if the ETA is close to a standard UberX.
EV Pop-Ups: Premium EV pop-ups in cities like London, LA, Miami, and Dallas will give riders the chance to experience cutting-edge EVs, such as the Lotus Eletre and Rivian R1.
Emission Savings Update: Uber is enhancing its emissions savings feature, letting riders track their environmental impact from start to finish, including bike, scooter, and UberX Share rides.
Climate Collection: A curated collection of climate-conscious products, including brands like Cuyana and Allbirds, will soon be available for on-demand purchase through Uber.
Farmers Markets on Eats: In New York City and Los Angeles, Uber Eats now delivers fresh produce from local farmers markets, bringing sustainability to consumers’ doorsteps.
For Drivers:
AI Assistant: To ease the transition to EVs, Uber is launching an AI Assistant powered by GPT-4 to answer drivers’ EV-related questions.
EV Mentors: Drivers curious about EVs can connect with experienced EV drivers through a mentorship program for first-hand insights.
Free Octopus Chargers: In partnership with Octopus Energy and BYD, 1,000 UK Uber drivers will receive free home chargers and discounts on public charging.
For Merchants:
Green Packaging Marketplace: A global marketplace will offer Uber Eats restaurants high-quality, sustainable packaging options.
Paris Innovation Pilot: Uber is investing $1 million to help Parisian restaurants switch to innovative, eco-friendly packaging such as seaweed-based bags and sugar-derived straws.
Green Ambassadors: Uber will award $50,000 to top merchants who implement their own sustainability initiatives, positioning them as role models in the industry.
To further bolster its climate agenda, Uber has partnered with The Earthshot Prize, aiming to support breakthrough climate innovators tackling barriers to electrification and sustainability.
With these initiatives, Uber is driving toward its zero-emissions future, making sustainable choices more convenient and affordable for all.
