The world’s very first partnership between a car manufacturer and a ride-hailing solution! The giant Uber has joined forces with Ford Next, the carmaker’s mobility subsidiary. Launched in 2021, it is presented as “a value creator, aiming to create new business models and customer experiences.” An objective fulfilled with the launch of the Ford Drive program. An exceptional leasing offer designed to encourage Uber drivers to switch to electric vehicles. Focus on the terms and benefits of this offer, which is likely to appeal to many Uber drivers. In particular, thanks to the prestigious vehicul offered…
A fully flexible leasing offer
Flexibility is the watchword of this unprecedented partnership. Called “Ford Drive”, the aim is to offer Uber drivers the opportunity to lease an electric car for a period of 1 to 4 months. And not just any car… In fact, the car manufacturer is offering them a Mustang Mach-E. A model that boasts electric performance, exceptional range, premium interior, and cutting-edge connectivity.
The vehicle is delivered to the driver within two weeks, and they use the Ford Drive app to manage payments and service. In each city, the Ford Drive team works with local dealers to purchase a fleet of Mustang Mach-Es. Service and maintenance of those vehicles are conducted through dealers as well.
PRESS RELEASE OF FORD
Currently launched in California, Ford Drive is available in San Diego, San Francisco and Los Angeles. A state that was not chosen at random… Indeed, as stated in the press release, “California is Uber’s leading North American market for the adoption of electric vehicles.” By the end of 2022, 10% of all kilometres travelled were in electric vehicles. This interest is now enabling the carmaker to promote its electric models. These vehicles represent a considerable investment of more than 50 billion dollars between now and 2026.
We’re glad that the initial feedback on this venture has been so strong, and it’s exciting to learn from these driver experiences to explore solutions supporting Uber and Ford’s shared electrification goals
bill knapp, ford drive’S CEO
A real lever for electrification for Uber
At a time when many cities are hunting down the VTC service, this program seems to serve its interests. Indeed, as stated in their press release 2 years ago, Uber’s ambition is “to be a zero-emission platform in North America and Europe by 2030. This goal is backed by a budget of $800 million.
As we continue marching toward our zero-emissions goal, Uber is thrilled to partner with Ford to provide an attractive and affordable option for leasing a leading EV and help drivers lower running costs and emissions. It’s a win for drivers, their riders, and the communities where they live
Christopher Hook, Uber’s Global Head of Sustainability
This leasing offer complements other eco-friendly offers already put in place by Uber. In fact, currently, in North America, drivers equipped with an electric vehicle are automatically paid $1 for each of their journeys. A financial incentive of up to $4,000 per calendar year. It remains to be seen whether all this will enable Uber to contribute to the change toward greener cities…
