Uber Goes Electric in South Africa: Cleaner Rides, Smarter Transport

A New Era of Rides in Jozi

Johannesburg streets are about to get a green makeover. Uber South Africa has rolled out its first fleet of electric vehicles (EVs), marking a significant step toward its global goal of running 100% zero-emission rides and deliveries by 2040.

Currently, 70 EVs are cruising through the city, with 350 expected by the end of January 2026. Entry-level fares will remain similar to Uber Go, making cleaner rides accessible without burning a hole in commuters’ pockets.

How It Works: EVs Without the Burden of Ownership

The electric fleet features the Henrey Minicar 4-seater, imported from China and supplied by Valternative Energy, which has partnered with Uber Electric on the project. Valternative is also known for its electric motorbike initiative, Uber Moto, and its swap-and-go battery system, which combines electric bikes, battery-swap stations, and subscriptions.

Deepesh Thomas, Uber’s GM for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the benefits for drivers at the Johannesburg launch:

“Drivers don’t have to buy a vehicle. They can rent it, have access to charging infrastructure, and focus on doing trips. It removes the uncertainty of fuel prices and stabilises earnings.”

Essentially, drivers can access a fully charged EV without upfront purchase costs, allowing them to earn consistently while contributing to a greener urban transport system.

Tackling Transport Poverty

Thomas also explained that the initiative aims to address what he calls South Africa’s “transport poverty”. Many ride-hailing drivers operate on razor-thin margins, often dependent on daily fuel cash. Valternative CEO Sou Mohamed Jeewa added:

“Last-mile drivers live on tight budgets. They wake up with a certain amount for fuel, and once it’s gone, they stop. With Uber Electric, fuel costs are removed from the equation. Drivers receive weekly payouts and don’t have to worry about daily expenses.”

This model not only ensures drivers have financial stability but also encourages more people to consider EVs as a viable income source.

Scaling Up for the Future

Uber’s EV strategy is already proven globally, with over 200,000 EV drivers worldwide. As the fleet expands across multiple South African cities, Uber hopes to make electric rides the new norm, reduce emissions, and support drivers’ financial independence.

With infrastructure and support in place, the rollout is more than just a novelty, it’s a step toward sustainable, equitable urban transport.

“This is about uplifting the festive spirit, giving drivers stability, and showing that electric mobility can work in South Africa,” Thomas said.

As Johannesburg’s EV fleet grows, commuters and drivers alike are poised to benefit. More vehicles mean more reliable, cleaner transport options, and fewer barriers for those earning a living behind the wheel. Uber Electric is more than a tech upgradeit’s a social and environmental intervention, proving that green transport can be affordable, accessible, and profitable.

{Source: Tech Central}

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