Analysis: the rush to supply Uber with EVs Car News

“First and foremost with VTC drivers it’s about money in the pocket,” said Peter O’Rourke, Global Marketing Manager for Splend.

This Australian rideshare company recently moved to London to offer its rent-to-own program to drivers who use not only rival Uber, but also apps from Bolt, Freenow and others that pay for parcel deliveries and of food.

Splend current offers the Ioniq Electric, the e-Niro and the MG 5 SW EV station wagon. The first of the three is the e-Niro in terms of design, according to O’Rourke. “It’s a knockout because of its size and shape, with plenty of head and leg room,” he explained. “At the back of the Prius, your knees are around your ears. “

But drivers also love the 5 SW EV for its space, value and long battery life. At 276 miles, it can drive for two days without recharging on the Uber driver’s average daily tally of 120 to 150 miles.

China could be a good source of good value EVs beyond the MG realm. Indeed, Splend is currently in talks with BYD to import its electric vehicles to London specifically for use in carpooling.

O’Rourke didn’t mention any models, but the Chinese firm is targeting its E6 electric crossover, which has a claimed range of 250 miles, at taxi drivers.

“At the end of the day, Chinese automakers make [electric] cheaper cars, which means we can buy them cheaper and provide them to our drivers for less, which means more money in their pocket, ”explained O’Rourke.

However, any Chinese who arrive in Britain – and indeed our own Arrival – will have to compete with established brands, and not just on price.

“If you’re an Uber driver, you know the Toyota brand. You trust him. It’s your livelihood, ”O’Rourke said. “It’s hard to get people to make this change.”