Mevo and GVI expand Uber drivers’ EV access

Uber has partnered with Kiwi EV providers to expand access to affordable EVs for the tens of thousands of Kiwis who drive and deliver with Uber and Uber Eats.

From March 13, 2025, drivers and delivery people can access exclusive, discounted deals on EV rentals with carsharing platform Mevo, while Genuine Vehicle Imports (GVI) will offer new flexible financing options on a range of secondhand EVs.

Uber aims to eliminate vehicle emissions globally by 2040, and during the last two years the company committed NZ$7.5 million in incentives to help New Zealand driver partners go electric, alongside partnerships with BP Charge and BYD aimed at bringing down overall EV ownership costs.

As of the fourth quarter last year, nearly 5% of all kilometres driven in New Zealand were in EVs. However, a 2024 survey of New Zealand Uber drivers revealed the high purchase costs of EVs is the main barrier to making the switch.

“We know bringing down the upfront cost of EVs will have the most impact in supporting our drivers and delivery people go electric,” says Uber Australia and New Zealand managing director Emma Foley.

“That’s why we’re so committed to leveraging the scale of our platform to bring them as many vehicle and finance options as possible.

“These partnerships with Kiwi-owned Mevo and GVI mark a significant step in helping Kiwi drivers and delivery people switch to EVs more easily and affordably.

“Whether they’re looking for long-term financing or flexible rental solutions, these new options help remove barriers to EV adoption and accelerate our work to eliminate vehicle emissions across the platform.”

Drive Electric chair Kirsten Corson says Uber is a strong example of a major global company continuing to prioritise a net-zero future.

“These innovative partnerships will surely go a long way in helping a number of Kiwi rideshare and delivery drivers get behind the wheel of an EV – reducing emissions and never having to pay for petrol again.”

In teaming up with Mevo, drivers and delivery people can now access EVs without long-term commitments, and at special discounted rates.

Mevo Subscribe offers a weekly rental model which suits experienced Uber drivers who want a predictable, cost-effective EV solution.

Participants can rent a BYD Atto 3 from $230 (GST inclusive) per week, which includes a 1600km monthly mileage allowance and with no deposit or bond required.

This partnership with Mevo is expected to be particularly beneficial for drivers who need a backup vehicle while their primary car is being serviced, want to trial an EV before making a long-term commitment or work more flexibly and would prefer on-demand vehicle access, says Uber.

Mevo already serves tens of thousands of Kiwis in place of either having to own a second car or foregoing ownership altogether, says Mevo co-founder and chief executive Erik Zydervelt.

“This partnership will expand our network, our offering, allowing us to better serve New Zealand on the shared path to a regenerative future.”

GVI brings its extensive experience and financial support options to Uber drivers and delivery people.

Through this partnership, drivers will have access to a range of high-quality used EVs such as the Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model 3, and Hyundai Ioniq with competitive Uber-only financing options.

Delivery people will also be able to get discounts on new e-scooters.

Benefits available to Uber drivers and delivery people through GVI include flexible financing with zero deposit options, one to five-year terms, a special finance concession, 18-months vehicle registration, first 3000km road user charge (RUC) cover, as well as a battery health report and year’s battery warranty, extendable to a three-year full mechanical, electric, and battery warranty for rideshare use.

With access to GVI’s national vehicle transport network, drivers across New Zealand can now secure an EV at an affordable rate with peace of mind on quality and performance.

GVI chief executive Hayden Johnston says the partnership will help Uber driver and delivery partners switch to zero emission vehicles.

“With a good supply of late models, large battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and support from our funding partners, we’re able to make the move from internal combustion engines (ICE) to EVs almost cost neutral.”

Uber Green goes fully electric from April 1, 2025.