Uber Pushes for Electric Vehicle Transition in Corporate Fleets
Uber is calling on the European Union to ban internal combustion engine cars in corporate fleets, including ridesharing, by 2030. The company also advocates for binding EU targets to increase electric vehicle (EV) production, helping to curb car emissions and accelerate the transition to a green economy.
Corporate Fleets Account for Major Emissions
According to Uber, corporate fleets—such as leasing, rental companies, and taxis—contribute to 71% of new car emissions. The ride-hailing giant believes electrifying these fleets would significantly advance the EU’s 2050 net-zero goals and has proposed that 100% electrification should be reached by 2035.
Consistent Policies Needed for Climate Transition
Citing the Draghi report, Uber called on EU policymakers to create consistent policies to drive investment in electrification. The company noted that, by itself, it cannot achieve zero-emission goals and urged the EU to provide the necessary regulatory and financial support for the transition.
Electrification Could Reduce Costs for Uber Drivers
Anabel Diaz, Uber’s VP of EMEA, emphasized that corporate fleets have a disproportionate impact on the environment. She urged the European Commission to help reduce the cost of EV adoption for drivers. Diaz highlighted the need for the EU’s “Clean Industrial Plan” to facilitate a fair and rapid transition to electric vehicles.
EU Support for Incentives and Infrastructure
Uber also asked the EU to combine mandatory targets with financial incentives to encourage EV adoption. They cited France and Italy’s subsidies for low-income households and public charging solutions in cities like Amsterdam and Lisbon, where policies make EV ownership more accessible.
Uber’s Proposal Exceeds EU’s Current Legislation
Uber’s call for a 2030 ban goes beyond the EU’s existing legislation, which mandates zero CO2 emissions for new cars by 2035. The EU’s current policy effectively bans petrol and diesel vehicles by that year, but Uber is pushing for a faster timeline specifically for corporate fleets.
Opposition from European Leaders
Despite these calls, some EU leaders, including Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, have criticized the 2035 ban. Meloni referred to the plan as “ideological madness,” while Italy’s Economic Development Minister, Adolfo Urso, argued that the Green Deal has caused an unsustainable collapse in the European EV market.
Battery Manufacturers Back the 2035 Ban
In contrast to critics, battery manufacturers and energy companies have urged EU lawmakers to stick to the 2035 ban. They wrote to policymakers asking them not to revise the rules, even as political parties like the European People’s Party (EPP) have suggested allowing alternative zero-emission fuels beyond 2035.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Cinco Dias
Whether writing about complex technical topics or breaking news stories, my writing is always clear, concise, and engaging. My dedication to my craft and passion for storytelling have earned me a reputation as a highly respected article writer.