Uber Introduces Discounted Electric Vehicles for Drivers sourced from Japan
The rideshare company is aiming to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.
Uber has partnered with Car Empire to offer drivers access to secondhand electric vehicles (EVs) from Japan.
The company will provide discounted EVs to Uber Rideshare and Uber Eats drivers to increase the presence of EVs in Australia.
In addition to reducing climate change emissions in Australia, Uber aims to reach net zero emissions on its platform by 2040.
Currently, EVs make up only 0.6% of the second-hand car market in Australia.
Drivers in Brisbane and the Gold Coast will have the opportunity to purchase affordable EVs through Uber’s vehicle marketplace in collaboration with Car Empire.
Initially, used Nissan Leaf EVs will be available for $124 (US$80) per week, including a three-year warranty and roadside assistance.
Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber Australia and New Zealand, expressed excitement about the partnership with Car Empire to bring this vision to life.
David Cosgrove, Director of Car Empire, highlighted the limited market for used electric vehicles in Australia but emphasized the impact of importing quality used EVs from Japan to reduce emissions.
Electric Vehicle Council CEO Samantha Johnson commended Uber for facilitating EV ownership for rideshare and delivery drivers to contribute to achieving national emissions targets.
Uber drivers will receive discounts on EV charging through the Uber program and can benefit from savings on petrol. The Nissan Leaf car will also be eligible for Uber Green and Comfort trips on the platform.
In April, Uber introduced a CO2 Emission Savings tracker tool for passengers to monitor the emissions saved by choosing an Uber Green or Comfort Electric ride.
Meanwhile, Uber’s financial results for the second quarter showed a record profit.
The platform experienced a 19% increase in bookings year-over-year and reported an income from operations of $796 million.
Adjusted earnings before tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) also rose by 71% year-over-year to $1.6 billion.
CEO Dara Khosrowshahi noted Uber’s consistent growth in trip numbers and strong consumer engagement.
An Australian government report released in August revealed that EVs accounted for 9.4% of new vehicle sales in Australia, with a growing network of charging infrastructure.
The government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) Bill 2024 will be enforced from January 1, 2025, setting emissions targets for covered vehicles to promote reduced carbon dioxide emissions.
