What is the Uber Clean Air Plan?
If you’re an Uber driver or thinking about becoming one, you’ve probably heard about the Uber Clean Air Plan.
It’s a program designed to help drivers switch to electric vehicles (EVs) while contributing to a greener future.
How Uber Clean Air Plan Works?
The idea is simple: Uber collects a Clean Air Fee from riders and gives that money to drivers as EV Assistance. You can use this assistance—up to £3,500—to buy or lease an electric vehicle.
Switching to an EV has never been more rewarding. With lower running costs, increased rider demand, and the added benefit of incentives like Uber EV Assistance, it’s a win-win.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know about this plan and how you can benefit.
What Is the Uber Clean Air Plan?
The Uber Clean Air Plan is part of Uber’s efforts to promote sustainable transportation.
Launched in London in 2019, this initiative aims to encourage drivers to transition to electric or low-emission vehicles.
Here’s how it works:
- Clean Air Fee: Riders pay a small fee on every trip into eligible cities. This money funds the EV Assistance for drivers.
- Driver Benefits: Drivers earn credits for every mile they drive, which can add up to £3,500 over time.
It’s Uber’s way of tackling air pollution while helping drivers lower their expenses.
Why Should Drivers Care About Uber EV Assistance?
Switching to an electric vehicle offers more than just environmental benefits.
Here’s why it makes sense for you:
- Lower Running Costs
EVs are much cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars.
Charging an EV costs significantly less than refuelling, and maintenance is simpler with fewer moving parts.
- Congestion Charge Exemptions
In cities like London, EVs are exempt from the Congestion Charge, saving you up to £15 daily. That adds up to hundreds of pounds each month.
- Higher Demand for Green Rides
Riders care about sustainability. Many actively choose Uber Green, meaning you’ll get more trips and better ratings with an EV.
- Financial Assistance
Uber Clean Air Plan provides up to £3,500 in assistance to help with the cost of buying or leasing an EV.
Combine this with programs like Rent-to-Buy options from Zoom PCO Hire, and transitioning becomes even easier.
How Does Uber EV Assistance Work?
The program is designed to reward your mileage.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Clean Air Fee: For every trip, Uber adds a Clean Air Fee paid by the rider.
- Credit Accumulation: Drivers earn 15p per mile for trips completed in eligible areas.
- Claiming Your Fund: Once your balance reaches a certain amount, you can use it to lease or buy an EV.
For example:
- A driver covering 20,000 miles annually could earn £3,000 in EV Assistance.
- The maximum you can claim is £3,500.
If you’re already driving, you can track your EV Assistance balance in the Uber app.
Best Vehicles for Uber EV Assistance
Choosing the right electric vehicle is critical.
Here are some top choices for Uber drivers:
1. Tesla Model 3
- Range: Up to 358 miles.
- Why It’s Great: Long range, premium features, and a great passenger experience.
2. Kia Niro EV
- Range: 282 miles.
- Why It’s Great: Affordable and spacious, perfect for long trips.
3. Nissan Leaf
- Range: 168 miles.
- Why It’s Great: Budget-friendly and reliable for city driving.
4. MG5 EV
- Range: 214 miles.
- Why It’s Great: Practical and affordable for daily rides.
At Zoom PCO Hire, we offer these models through Rent-to-Buy programs with easy weekly payments. Plus, all vehicles are Uber-approved and come with maintenance support.
How to Get Started with Uber EV Assistance
Switching to an electric vehicle through Uber EV Assistance is simple.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Drive Regularly
The more trips you complete, the faster your Clean Air Fund grows.
Step 2: Check Your Balance
Track your EV Assistance balance in the Uber app to see how much you’ve earned.
Step 3: Choose Your EV
Select a vehicle that meets your needs. Consider range, cost, and comfort.
Step 4: Claim Your Fund
When you’re ready, use your EV Assistance balance to lease or buy an electric vehicle.
Combine it with Zoom PCO Hire options for a seamless process.
FAQs About Uber EV Assistance
Who Pays for the Clean Air Fee?
Passengers pay the Clean Air Fee, so it doesn’t cost you anything.
Can I Use EV Assistance with Rent-to-Buy?
Yes! Programs like ours accept Uber EV Assistance, making the transition easier.
What Happens If I Stop Driving for Uber?
You’ll lose access to your Clean Air Fund if you stop driving, so it’s best to use it while active.
How Much Can You Save with an EV?
Switching to an EV isn’t just good for the environment—it’s great for your wallet.
Here’s an example of potential savings:
- Fuel Costs: Charging an EV costs 60-70% less than refueling with petrol.
- Congestion Charge: Save £75 weekly in London by driving an EV.
- Maintenance: Spend less on repairs due to fewer moving parts.
These savings, combined with the £3,500 from Uber EV Assistance, make switching a no-brainer.
Tips for Maximizing Uber EV Assistance
To get the most out of this program, try these tips:
- Drive Strategically: Focus on high-demand areas to complete more trips.
- Choose a High-Range EV: Minimize charging stops and maximize driving time.
- Plan Your Routes: Use apps like Zap-Map to find fast charging stations nearby.
- Combine Incentives: Take advantage of the Uber Clean Air Plan and other government grants for EVs.
Final Thoughts
EV Assistance and the Uber Clean Air Plan are game-changers for drivers.
They help you switch to an electric vehicle without breaking the bank. With incentives like £3,500 in assistance, lower running costs, and exemptions from congestion charges, the benefits are clear.
At Zoom PCO Hire, we make the process even easier. Our PCO car hire and Rent-to-Buy options offer Uber-approved EVs with flexible weekly payments.
If you’re ready to save money, attract more riders, and contribute to a cleaner future, now’s the time to make the switch.
