The prevalence of ridesharing apps and electric vehicles are both things that would’ve been difficult to predict just a few short years ago, but these days they’re both major staples of American roads. As of a recent announcement from Ford Next, a collaboration between the company and Uber will bring these two transportation forces together to encourage rideshare drivers to go electric.
The program, called Ford Drive, offers drivers flexible access to the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Depending on the location, the driver is able to use the vehicle for increments of time between one month and four months. The Mustang Mach-E is delivered to them within two weeks, and they utilize the Ford Drive app for payments and service. The program has launched in San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, and vehicle deliveries in Los Angeles have already begun.
“We understand uptime and ease of use are critical to every rideshare driver. As more of them make the switch to electric vehicles, we’re building the Ford Drive program around their unique needs,” said Bill Knapp, head of Ford Drive. “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.”
This program was initially launched last year in San Diego, resulting in over 150 Mustang Mach-E vehicles hitting the streets under flexible rideshare leases. California is Uber’s leading North American market for EV uptake, with close to 10% of all trip miles completed in electric vehicles as of late 2022. Uber’s current goal is to become a completely zero-emissions platform in both North America and Europe by 2030, and the company has pledged $800 million in incentives and resources to help drivers make the switch to electric vehicles. Uber drivers in North America who drive EVs are eligible for the company’s Zero Emissions incentive, allowing them to earn an extra dollar on every trip up to $4,000 per calendar year. The Mustang Mach-E is also eligible for Comfort Electric, Uber’s premium zero exhaust ride offering.
“Climate change is the most urgent challenge of our time, and we must work together in order to tackle it,” said Christopher Hook, Uber’s Global Head of Sustainability. “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.”
Ford is investing more than $50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026, and the Ford Drive flexible leasing program will be a major part of the company’s push to promote sustainable transportation. If you’re interested in learning more about Ford’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change, keep reading our blog here at Dunphy Ford!
