Uber Technologies, Inc. has announced a multi-year strategic partnership with Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams) to bring 10,000 brand-new BYD electric vehicles onto Uber platforms in key global markets. With this cooperation, large swaths of BYD cars will be served for ride-sharing services in multiple countries.
At first, the service will begin in Europe and move to South American markets. This will later expand to the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It’s said that the partnership aims to provide best-in-class pricing and financing for BYD vehicles that choose Uber platforms for mobility services.
Both Uber and BYD are giants in their respective industries. The former is a prominent ride-hailing service provider while BYD is a top global EV manufacturer and continues to ascend to new heights.
BYD has escaped heavy competition from the likes of Tesla and grown its stakes in global markets. Its bold and beautiful car lineups such as the BYD Atto 3 have propped up its presence to an extraordinary height in the global market.
What has been said of BYD and Uber cooperation?
“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.”
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Working together, both aim to lower the costs of EVs and make them more appealing choices for customers while also promoting eco-friendly transportation.
Driver surveys have shown that the price of EVs and lack of financing remain the roadblocks to switching to EVs. This is where BYD seeks to cash in. BYD cars, unlike fierce market players, are known for their affordability and they also cost less in maintenance and repair. This is added by demonstrated battery performance and build quality.
Going ahead, both BYD and Uber may also offer discounts on charging, financing, lease, maintenance, and insurance to up the prospect of BYD cars’ usage on Uber platforms.