Uber and BYD join hands to deliver 100,000 EVs across globe

BYD, the world's leading producer of new energy vehicles (NEVS) on Saturday announced a multi-year strategic agreement with Uber to deliver 100,000 new BYD electric vehicles to the Uber platform across important international markets.

The partnership is anticipated to start in Europe and Latin America and eventually spread to the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Reportedly, with the new update, drivers can avail the best possible pricing and financing options for BYD vehicles on the Uber platform.

Both businesses prevail in the EV market in their respective niches. BYD is a major player in EV production globally, while Uber has the most extensive on-demand EV network worldwide. With the collaboration, the firms hope to lower the total cost of EV ownership for Uber drivers, hasten the global adoption of EVs on the Uber platform, and introduce millions of passengers to more environmentally friendly transportation options.

While Uber drivers are switching to electric vehicles five times quicker than owners of private vehicles, driver surveys indicate that the cost of EVs and the availability of finance continue to be the primary obstacles to adoption. BYD advertise its cars as reasonably priced and requiring minimal maintenance and repair expenses. The company’s large selection of models, build quality, and battery performance make them ideal for ridesharing.

In addition, depending on what works best for drivers in a particular region, the firms' cooperative efforts may include finance and leasing options, as well as discounts on insurance, vehicle service, and charging.

Additionally, as per reports, the two businesses will work together on upcoming BYD autonomous vehicles that will soon be seen in the Uber network. Being the biggest on-demand transportation and delivery network in the world, Uber is in a good position to mass-market autonomous car technology.