Uber starts cooperation with EV producer Arrival

Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE: UBER) has partnered with electric car maker Arrival to create an electric car designed specifically for Uber drivers. Arrival has already developed an electric "skateboard" platform that can be used with various types of vehicles. The EV startup's first models are delivery vans and buses, and so far UPS has ordered around 10,000 delivery vans. However, details about the Uber electric car are still sparse and are under development. The final design of the car is slated to be revealed by the end of the year, with production slated to begin in the third quarter of 2023. Uber said the top priority is comfort for passengers and drivers, and one version of the design predicts a pod-like car with a roomy back seat. Interestingly, the Uber drivers will contribute to the car design process to ensure that the car is designed according to their needs. Last year, the ride-hailing giant promised to become an all-electric platform by 2025 in London, by 2030 in Europe and North America, and by 2040 worldwide. Uber is now delivering on that promise. Recently, Uber Green launched, which gives passengers the option to choose an electric vehicle at no additional cost and drivers the option to pay a small service fee. This is part of the $ 800 million initiative to attract more EV drivers. Recently, Uber ended its in-house self-driving tech development with a focus on becoming an all-electric platform. However, when the EV development was announced, the capability for autonomous driving was not mentioned. Uber plans to double the number of EV drivers by the end of this year and has incentivized drivers by helping them finance or buy new vehicles. Interestingly, the Arrival vehicles might be among the recommended cars for Uber drivers looking to switch to electric, especially those in London who qualify for "EV Assistance" through the Clean Air Plan.