The Future of Uber is Electric – Here’s Why!
Electric cars are gaining popularity among PCO drivers for several reasons. For instance, the government plans to phase out petrol, diesel and hybrid cars soon, meaning that only EVs will be allowed on the roads after that.
Additionally, Uber aims to have a fully electric fleet by the end of 2025 in London. If you don’t make the switch in time, you won’t qualify for Uber’s EV assistance programme, which provides £3,000 financial aid to help you get an EV.
There are many other reasons that make EVs the future of the ride-hailing industry. Let’s look at them.
Article Highlights
This article explains key reasons PCO drivers are switching to EVs in London:
- Lower running costs.
- No daily charges.
- Access to Uber Green and other incentives.
- Use of Uber’s Clean Air Plan fund, and more.
Kia eNiro
£125/week
Kia Niro 2
£260/week
Mercedes Benz EQE
£325/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£375/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
Lower Running Costs
Electric vehicles are generally more cost-effective to operate than petrol or diesel cars. For PCO drivers, this can significantly improve weekly earnings:
- Fuel savings of up to £100-£150 per week.
- Minimal maintenance (no oil, fewer mechanical failures).
- Free or discounted charging at certain locations, as Uber has partnered with BP Pulse, Shell Recharge, and others.
Over time, these savings can balance the higher upfront or rental costs of an EV.
No Daily Charges
EVs are exempt from:
- Congestion charge (£15 per day)
- ULEZ charge (£12.50 per day)
That’s a potential saving of over £300 per month and £3,600 per year, making EVs a wise financial choice for long-term PCO drivers.
Every week, we see drivers switching to EVs and saving hundreds of pounds a week in fuel and ULEZ/congestion charges. With Fleeto, you don’t just get an electric car. You get a team that handles the licensing, documents, insurance, and Uber readiness, so you can start earning from day one. Ask us how we can help you qualify for Uber’s EV Assistance scheme before the deadline.
You can also read our detailed articles on ULEZ Charges and Congestion Charges for more information
Access to Uber Green and Other Incentives
Uber EV drivers are eligible for Uber Green, which comes with:
- Increased demand.
- Priority for EV drivers in the low-emission zones.
- Higher earning potential due to 10% more fare compared to Uber X.
Use of Uber’s Clean Air Plan Fund
In 2024, Uber launched the PowerUp Package to help PCO drivers switch to electric vehicles. Eligible drivers can get £3,000 in EV Assistance, also known as Uber’s Clean Air Plan Fund. You can use this fund to:
- Avail discounts on new or used EVs.
- Get special discounts on Rent to Buy and PCO Car hire options with Uber partners.
To claim discounts on new or used EVs, you must:
- Have at least £100 in your Uber Clean Air credit. The Clean Air credit is 3 pence per mile, meaning that for every mile you drive in Greater London, 3 pence are added to your balance.
- Add an EV to your Uber driver app profile by 30 September 2025.
- Complete at least 150 trips in an EV within 8 weeks before making a claim.
There are two ways to claim your Clean Air credit:
- EV ClaimBack: You can use your Clean Air credit to claim money back after you’ve already spent your own funds on an eligible EV expense, like a rental or purchase deposit from a qualifying partner. It’s essentially a reimbursement.
- Marketplace Option: Lets you directly use your EV Assistance fund to hire or buy an EV through an Uber-approved partner.
If you miss the 30 September deadline, you’ll no longer be able to access the full £3,000 funding through the PowerUp Package.
Future-Proofing Your Driving Career
As emission requirements become strict and Uber moves towards an all-electric fleet, non-EV drivers risk being left behind. By choosing an electric car today, you can:
- Avoid sudden regulatory changes.
- Secure long-term eligibility on Uber.
- Stay competitive as petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles are phased out of the industry.
Supporting London’s Environmental Goals
Along with all the above benefits, driving an EV contributes to:
- Cleaner air for Londoners.
- Reduced carbon emissions.
- A more sustainable and forward-thinking transport system.
Longer Vehicle Life with Fewer Repairs
Petrol and diesel cars have hundreds of moving engine parts (spark plugs, pistons, belts, etc.), while EVs use a simpler electric motor, resulting in fewer issues and longer vehicle life.
Driving an EV means:
- No oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel required.
- Brakes last longer due to regenerative braking.
- Fewer repairs = less time off the road and more time completing rides.
- Longer battery life, as many EVs come with a warranty of 8-10 years or 100,000 miles. Some even work well after 10 years with proper care.
If you want to get the most out of every mile you drive, then consider driving an EV today.
No Effect of Petrol and Diesel Bans
The UK is banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 and hybrids/PHEVs by 2035. Here’s what it means for PCO drivers:
- Electric cars are no longer a trend. They are a necessity.
- Drivers who switch early will lead the market, while those who wait risk being left behind.
- By 2035, the market will be flooded with used petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles due to the lack of buyers and a ban on new sales. As a result, many of these vehicles may be harder to insure, license, or resell. Having an EV will help you avoid all these issues.
Easier Daily Charging Options
The charging infrastructure in London is growing rapidly, allowing you to stay topped up without any hassle.
- The capital has over 20,000 public charging points.
- Some of these offer free charging to help you save money. You can read our detailed guide on free EV charging stations in London here.
- Charge your EV during breaks or overnight to minimise downtime.
Charging EVs in London used to be a hassle, but not anymore. The government is continuously supporting the installation of charging points in key areas to reduce the stress that used to come with topping up EVs.
Start Earning Today.
Conclusion
Electric cars are the future of Uber driving. With lower running costs, algorithm priority, and special incentives from Uber, switching to an EV is a smart business move. Make the switch now, and get ahead in the competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the future of the ride-hailing industry?
As sustainability and AI become increasingly critical, the future will be shaped by electric and self-driving vehicles.
What are the perks of driving an EV for Uber?
Uber offers special incentives for PCO drivers operating electric vehicles. Affordable PCO car hire and rent to buy EV plans are also available via Uber’s partner providers.
Are EVs good for private hire use?
Electric vehicles are an excellent option for private hire use. Their advanced tech, quiet rides, and enhanced comfort provide a superior passenger experience, along with long-term cost savings for drivers.
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Ready to Future-Proof Your Income and Unlock the Full Benefits of Uber’s EV Transition?
At Fleeto, we’ve got fully licensed, Uber Green-ready electric vehicles available now. No stress, no delays. Whether you’re looking to rent weekly or explore a rent-to-buy option, our team will guide you through the entire process, including how to claim your £3,000 Uber EV Assistance before the September deadline.
Make the switch today with Fleeto and drive into the future, earning more with every mile.
