Uber has pledged to make 25% of the kilometers driven by its cars in Dubai electric by 2030 as part of its plan to become a zero-emission platform globally by 2040, a move worth around $800 million. However, the ride-hailing company stated that its goal is contingent on the adoption of electric vehicle technology by policymakers and car manufacturers. To meet this target, Dubai must ban the sale of new internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035 and shift at least 15% of road traffic to rail, according to a report by the Dubai Just Transition and Climate Pathways study.
Frans Hiemstra, General Manager for Uber in the Middle East and Africa region, emphasized the importance of developing a clear policy framework to prepare the continent for the electrification of transport. He stressed that affordability is the primary challenge for electric vehicles today and called on private companies and governments to influence policymakers to introduce the right incentives and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to provide more affordable vehicle components.
The 2022 AutoTrader Mid-Year Industry Report reveals that the high prices and lack of charging infrastructure are currently the most significant obstacles to the increased adoption of electric vehicles in Dubai. Despite this, Uber is committed to using partnerships with private companies and governments to push for a more sustainable future.
Although none of the over one billion trips recorded by Uber in Africa have been made using an electric vehicle, the company has rolled out Uber Green, a low-emission ride option that connects riders with hybrid and electric vehicles in parts of Canada, Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the US. Uber is part of a collective called Go Green Africa, which is urging the Dubai government to introduce favorable policies that encourage the use of electric vehicles.
According to Hiemstra, governments play a crucial role in creating a clear policy framework that can help companies like Uber execute their sustainable vision. He added that while a sustainable future is not solely about electric vehicles, it is still a vital aspect of creating a cleaner and greener environment.
Uber's commitment to making 25% of the kilometers driven by its cars in Dubai electric by 2030 is part of its dedication to becoming a zero-emission platform globally by 2040. The ride-hailing company is working to build partnerships with policymakers and car manufacturers to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicle technology and make sustainable transport a reality.
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