Uber’s Canadian division has announced the launch of its UberÉLECTRIQUE program in Montreal, Que., in partnership with the Association des véhicules électriques du Québec (AVEQ) and Electric Mobility Canada (EMC).
“We are proud that Montreal has been chosen for the launch of the UberÉLECTRIQUE program and we look forward to contributing to the electrification of transportation in Quebec with the support of experts from the Association des véhicules électriques du Québec and Electric Mobility Canada,” said Jean-Christophe de Le Rue, a spokesperson for Uber Canada.
As the ride-sharing industry continues to expand with new options, Uber’s electric vehicle (EV) initiative may be part of the company’s plan to woo drivers — not just in Quebec, but other cities as well, such as Pittsburgh, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco, where monetary incentives for electric vehicle drivers have been offered.
In Montreal, Uber is only now dipping its toes in the EV market as it works with nearly 100 driver-partners in the city (currently operating an EV on the Uber platform) to better understand the opportunities and challenges of electrification in ride-sharing. The company also plans on promoting the benefits of clean mobility solutions to “hundreds of thousands of riders and drivers” in Montreal as it seeks to enhance awareness around the subject.
“Uber and other international experts in sustainable mobility believe that the future of urban mobility needs to be shared, electric and autonomous; today’s announcement is another step towards this goal, which will reduce congestion and pollution, while offering a reliable alternative to driving your personal vehicle,” said de Le Rue.
In addition to expanding its offerings in Canada, Uber’s plans may also be an attempt to distance itself from the controversy it has been steeped in for the past several years — particularly in the United Kingdom, where its license was revoked in certain cities, including London. Sexual harassment, poor employee behaviour and ethical issues are among the many flags that were raised, although the company claims it has embracing major reforms after former CEO Travis Kalanick said he would take a leave of absence in 2017.
