Ford is working with Uber to create a new, flexible leasing pilot program in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. Ford Drive will give rideshare drivers more flexible options in order to encourage them to get into an electric vehicle.
Through a new dedicated app, Ford Drive users will be able to sign up for lease terms of as little as one to four-months (depending on location) on the Ford Mustang Mach-E when it is used as a rideshare vehicle. Once ordered, the EV is delivered within two weeks and lessees can use the Ford Drive app to manage payments and services.
“We understand uptime and ease of use are critical to every rideshare driver. As more of them make the switch to electric vehicles, we’re building the Ford Drive program around their unique needs,” said Bill Knapp, who leads Ford Drive. “We’re glad that the initial feedback on this venture has been so strong, and it’s exciting to learn from these driver experiences to explore solutions supporting Uber and Ford’s shared electrification goals.”
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To make the program work, the Mustang Mach-Es will be purchased by local dealers, which will also handle service and maintenance. While Ford Drive launched today, Ford first tested a flexible lease program with Uber in San Diego in 2022.
The program will provide Ford with more customers for its EVs, while Uber adds more electric vehicles to its ride-sharing fleet. Uber, which according to a study has (along with other ride-sharing companies) contributed to worsening congestion on the world’s roads, is working to be a zero-emissions platform in North America and Europe by 2030.
To that end, it has pledged $800 million in incentives to drivers who make the switch to electric. That includes an extra dollar for every Uber Rides trip completed with an electric vehicle. Since Uber vehicles tend to drive a lot, transitioning them to electric power could have disproportionate environmental benefits.
“As we continue marching toward our zero-emissions goal, Uber is thrilled to partner with Ford to provide an attractive and affordable option for leasing a leading EV and help drivers lower running costs and emissions. It’s a win for drivers, their riders, and the communities where they live.”
