In New York City, it might not be long before all ridesharing vehicles are electric. According to Mayor Eric Adams’ plan, all “high volume for-hire” vehicles operated by Uber, Lyft, and similar businesses must have zero emissions by the year 2030. According to the government, drivers won’t incur “any new charges.” On top of the city’s ambitions to electrify its fleet, the initiative would be built.
Adams didn’t explain the specifics of this transformation. The Taxi and Limousine Commission, which already oversees ridesharing in New York City, would probably be in charge of carrying out the EV policy, according to The Verge.
At least a few businesses have already embraced the concept. According to a statement, Uber “applaud[s]” Adams’ initiative, and Lyft says it is “eager” to cooperate with the city. But it’s not a challenging aim for them. By 2030, Uber and Lyft intend to operate exclusively on electricity. They also run initiatives like Uber’s rentals through Hertz and Lyft’s incentives to promote EV adoption across the US. There may not be much of a choice for services due to pressure elsewhere. By 2030, California will mandate that the majority of ride-hailing vehicles be electric vehicles.
However, drivers can encounter difficulties. Even if maintenance costs for EVs may eventually be cheaper than those for combustion engines, workers may not be able to afford them at the moment. Although EV costs are falling, it might still be some time before they are fully within the reach of the driver population that is trying to increase income.
The issue of infrastructure is another. Even if 15% of drivers could recharge their vehicles overnight, according to a 2022 analysis conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, New York City would require more than 1,000 150kW fast charging stations to adequately power 20,000 ridesharing and taxi cars. To make the conversion, the city may need to make a large investment in charging stations. The mayor’s proposal would electrify “100,000+” rides.
