With gas prices soaring across the country, many Canadians are finding the prospect of switching to an electric vehicle (EV) even more appealing—especially those who rely on their vehicles as a source for income. Thanks to reduced maintenance and charging costs, research estimates that drivers can save as much as $2,000 per year by switching to a full-battery electric vehicle.
Electric vehicles are gaining traction amongst ridesharing drivers. A recent Uber Canada survey found that 71 percent of drivers on the platform are interested in switching to an EV.
Making the switch to electric vehicles easier for ridesharing drivers, Uber Canada’s partnership with Wallbox, a leading provider of electric vehicle charging and energy management solutions worldwide, will offer home charging stations to more drivers on the Uber app.
Through the partnership, drivers on the Uber platform can now receive discount packages for the Wallbox Pulsar Plus charger and installation, in addition to incentives and rebates offered by utilities or local governments.
Wallbox’s installation partners are also helping drivers navigate the EV installation process, an especially helpful service for those who rent or live in multi-dwelling units.
By creating more access to home charging for ridesharing drivers, Uber hopes to reduce barriers to EV adoption and make the transition more affordable and convenient. According to Natural Resources Canada, more than 80% of EV owners charge at home, reducing the total cost of EV ownership by up to 25%.
“We know that most EV charging is happening at home, so simplifying home charging is essential if we want to accelerate the transition,” said Douglas Alfaro, General Manager for Wallbox North America.
Partnering with organizations like Wallbox is part of Uber Canada’s ongoing commitment to become a zero-emission platform in major cities in Canada by 2030. Earlier this year, Uber announced a partnership with Plug’n Drive to give drivers the opportunity to learn about the total cost of owning an EV and the benefits of making the switch from gas to electric.
“Helping drivers go electric is a critical part of our plan to become a fully-electric, zero-emissions platform in Canada,” said Laura Miller, Head of Policy and Communications for Uber Canada. “This partnership with Wallbox helps drivers by making it more affordable and accessible to charge their EVs.”
Discounted Wallbox home charging and installation packages are available now for drivers on the Uber platform in Vancouver and Toronto with plans to expand the program across the rest of the country by fall 2022.