Uber New Zealand has announced partnerships with Mevo and GVI to increase the availability of affordable electric vehicles (EVs) for drivers and delivery people in New Zealand. Effective today, these collaborations aim to provide discounted EV rental options and flexible financing for pre-owned EVs for Uber drivers, supporting Uber's global goal of achieving 100 percent electric rides, micro-mobility, or public transit by 2040.
According to the announcement, Uber has invested $7.5 million in incentives over the past two years to encourage EV adoption among its New Zealand drivers, alongside partnerships with BP and BYD. While nearly 5 percent of all kilometres driven on the platform in New Zealand during the last quarter were in EVs, a 2024 survey indicated that the high cost of EV purchase remains a primary obstacle for drivers.
"We know bringing down the upfront cost of EVs will have the most impact in supporting our drivers and delivery people go electric," said Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber Australia and New Zealand.
"That’s why we’re committed to leveraging the scale of our platform to bring them as many vehicle and finance options as possible. 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 was encouraging to watch Uber’s sustained commitment to electrification in New Zealand.
"As public and private sector investment slows, Uber is a strong example of a major global company continuing to prioritise an all-electric future," she said.
The partnership with Mevo will offer drivers and delivery people access to EVs through a weekly rental model called Mevo Subscribe, with discounted rates and no long-term commitment required. A BYD Atto 3 rental will be available from $230 per week (including GST), with a 1600km monthly mileage allowance and no deposit or bond. This is expected to benefit drivers needing a temporary vehicle, those wanting to test an EV, or those preferring flexible vehicle access.
Erik Zydervelt, co-founder and CEO of Mevo, said the company was delighted to be partnering with Uber and helping their drivers switch over to an EV.
"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."
Meanwhile, the collaboration with GVI will offer Uber drivers access to a selection of used EVs with specific financing options, while delivery people will also have access to discounts on new e-scooters. Flexible financing with potential for a $0 deposit, loan terms from 12 to 60 months, a special finance concession, 18 months of vehicle registration, initial RUC coverage, a battery health report, and a 12-month battery warranty, with an option to extend it will all be offered.
“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," said Hayden Johnston, CEO of GVI.
"With a good supply of late model, 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."