Uber has partnered with two Kiwi electric vehicle (EV) providers to expand access to affordable EVs for the tens of thousands of Kiwis who drive and deliver with Uber and Uber Eats. From today, drivers and delivery people can access exclusive, discounted deals on EV rentals with leading local carsharing platform Mevo, while GVI, a pioneering automotive player in New Zealand, will offer new flexible financing options on a range of pre-loved EVs.

Uber has a goal to have 100 percent of rides on the platform take place in EVs or via micromobility or public transit by 2040. Over the past two years in New Zealand, the company committed $7.5 million in incentives to help Kiwi driver partners go electric, alongside partnerships with bp charge and BYD aimed at bringing down overall costs of EV ownership.  

These programs have gone a long way to boost the number of electric vehicles on the platform, and as of the fourth quarter last year, nearly five percent of all kilometers driven in New Zealand were in EVs. However, a 2024 survey of New Zealand Uber drivers revealed the high purchase costs of EVs remains the number one barrier to making the switch.

“We know bringing down the upfront cost of EVs will have the most impact in supporting our drivers and delivery people go electric. That’s why we’re committed to leveraging the scale of our platform to bring them as many vehicle and finance options as possible,” said Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber Australia & New Zealand. “These partnerships with Kiwi-owned Mevo and GVI mark a significant step in helping Kiwi drivers and delivery people switch to EVs more easily and affordably. Whether they’re looking for long-term financing or flexible rental solutions, these new options help remove barriers to EV adoption and accelerate our work to reduce vehicle emissions across the platform.” 

Kirsten Corson, Chair of Drive Electric, said, “It’s been encouraging to watch Uber’s sustained commitment to electrification in Aotearoa. As public and private sector investment slows, Uber is a strong example of a major global company continuing to prioritise an all-electric future. These innovative partnerships will surely go a long way in helping a number of Kiwi rideshare and delivery drivers get behind the wheel of an EV – reducing emissions and never having to pay for petrol again.”

Flexible EV access with Mevo

In teaming up with Mevo, drivers and delivery people can now access EVs without long-term commitments, and at special discounted rates. Mevo Subscribe offers a weekly rental model, ideal for experienced Uber drivers who want a predictable, cost-effective EV solution. Participants can rent a BYD Atto 3 rental from $230 (GST inclusive) per week, which includes a 1,600km monthly mileage allowance and with no deposit or bond required.

This partnership with Mevo is expected to be particularly beneficial for drivers who need a backup vehicle while their primary car is being serviced, want to trial an EV before making a long-term commitment or work more flexibly and would prefer on-demand vehicle access.

Erik Zydervelt, co-founder and CEO of Mevo, said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Uber and helping their drivers switch over to an EV in a flexible way that makes sense for needs. Mevo already serves tens of thousands of Kiwi’s who rely on us in place of either having to own a second car or foregoing ownership altogether. This partnership will expand our network, our offering, allowing us to better serve New Zealand on the shared path to a regenerative future.”

Affordable access to used EVs with GVI

GVI is bringing its extensive experience and financial support options to Uber drivers and delivery people. Through this partnership, drivers will have access to a range of high-quality used EVs, such as the Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model 3, and Hyundai Ioniq, with competitive Uber-only financing options – helping support rideshare drivers to go electric. Delivery people will also be able to access compelling discounts on new e-scooters ideal for food delivery.

Benefits available to Uber drivers and delivery people through GVI include flexible financing with $0 deposit options, 12-month to 60-month terms, a special finance concession, 18-months vehicle registration, first 3,000km RUC cover, as well as a battery health report and 12-month battery warranty, extendable to a 3-year full mechanical, electric, and battery warranty for rideshare use. With access to GVI’s national vehicle transport network, drivers across New Zealand can now secure an EV at an affordable rate with peace of mind on quality and performance.

Hayden Johnston, CEO of GVI, said, “We’re really excited to partner with Uber on this initiative and help their driver and delivery partners make the switch to Zero Emission vehicles. With a good supply of late models, large battery electric vehicles and support from our funding partners, we’re able to make the move from internal combustion engines to EVs almost cost neutral. It’s a big step toward a cleaner transport future, and we’re proud to be part of it.”