Bad news for Camry as Uber launches purpose-built EV

Uber is partnering with UK-based EV start-up Arrival to create a bespoke electric vehicle that would allow Uber drivers to ply their wares in a world where the sale of ICE vehicles will be banned. 

Uber’s mission to take over the world is also continuing apace with the company committing to being a fully electric transportation provider in London by 2025, and across the rest of Europe and North America by 2030.

The new EV will, according to Arrival, be an ”affordable, purpose-built electric vehicle for ride-hailing, and will be designed in partnership with Uber drivers”.

It will be called the Arrival Car, and while no one knows what it will look like, Arrival has previously created an electric delivery van for UPS, which might provide some hints.

Manufacturing is planned to commence in 2023, and current Uber drivers have been invited to join the design process, to ensure it meets their needs. Built-in air fresheners perhaps? 

Apparently a “premium experience for occupants” will also be prioritised.

Incredibly, in the UK, you can already specify that your Uber ride be in an electric vehicle, at no extra cost.

Tom Elvidge, senior vice president of Arrival, said the huge contract with Uber would be a hue move towards a world of zero-emissions mobility. 

“We are confident that electrifying ride-hailing vehicles will have an outsized impact on cities, and we are keen to support drivers as they manage this transition,” Elvidge said. 

“We have a great partnership with UPS to create a best-in-class electric delivery vehicle, and we hope to replicate that success with Uber as we develop the best possible product for ride-hailing that elevates the experience of the passenger and improves drivers’ health, safety and finances.”