Photo credit: Plug’n Drive

As the largest mobility platform in the world, we know that our impact goes beyond our technology. We’ve made a commitment to operate a zero-emission platform globally by 2040, and in Canadian cities with supportive policies—like Montreal and Vancouver—by 2030. One of the ways we are going to achieve this is by helping drivers on the Uber platform go electric. 

In a recent survey of drivers in Canada, we found that 71% are interested in switching to an EV. This is significant as we know that these drivers drive more than the average person, meaning every one that switches to an EV has an outsized impact on putting green kilometres on our streets. But we also know that it can be challenging for drivers to make a big decision like transitioning to EV. 

That’s why today we’re announcing a partnership with Plug’n Drive, a non-profit committed to accelerating EV adoption. Plug’n Drive will create and offer webinars as well as host test drive opportunities for drivers. This will give drivers the opportunity to learn about the total cost of owning an EV and the benefits of making the switch from gas to electric. 

“It’s important to consider the total cost of ownership, especially when you earn with your vehicle,” said Cara Clairman, President and CEO of Plug’n Drive. “We know that EVs are cheaper to drive and better for the environment, but everyone’s situation is different. This program will help raise awareness for drivers on how much money they can save as well as how much they can reduce their carbon footprint by switching to an EV.”

Facts about EVs and drivers: 

  • Drivers can save as much as $2,000 per year on maintenance and fuel. Electricity is about a quarter to 1/6th the cost of gas. Electric cars do not require oil changes, transmissions, or exhaust systems. They have only 20 to 30 moving parts, whereas gas cars have closer to 2000 moving parts. This means far less to break down.
  • An average Canadian driver drives about 20,000 kilometres a year. Some drivers on the Uber platform drive further. Fortunately, most fully electric cars can travel 200 to 500km on a single charge. When a fully electric car is idling, the electric motor draws only a small amount of energy from the battery, whereas gas engines are continually burning fuel—and money. 
  • If a driver needs to charge while on the road, Canada has over 6,000 public charging stations, many of which are DC fast chargers that will fully recharge a battery in 30-45 minutes. Most charging takes place at home overnight when the cost of electricity and environmental impact is lowest. 
  • EVs reduce GHG emissions from your vehicle by as much as 90%, depending on the source of electricity.

Plug’n Drive’s initiatives are partially funded by Natural Resources Canada to increase awareness, knowledge, and confidence in EVs for ridesharing and delivery.   

In November 2021, our then General Manager of Uber Canada Matthew Price provided a progress updated on our sustainability commitments in Canada. You can read about it in our blogpost or check out this article in Canadian Business. Last fall, we also announced Uber+Transit as a pilot in the Greater Toronto Area. By looking at transit schedules and UberX availability, we’ll suggest a combined route that’s both convenient and affordable.    

We’ll continue to do our part at Uber to reach our sustainability targets and move towards a fully electric platform.