Uber Technologies and EV charging startup Revel have joined forces in a groundbreaking partnership aimed at advancing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and enhancing benefits for rideshare drivers. The collaboration, announced today, will see Uber providing financial support to Revel for the expansion of its fast-charging network, initially focusing on New York City before rolling out to other major U.S. cities.
Revel, known for its distinctive sky blue Tesla Model Ys and Kia Niro EVs that zip through New York City, was established in 2018 with a mission to support all-electric taxi fleets through robust charging infrastructure. The company made headlines in November 2022 with plans to extend its fast-charging network beyond New York City to major cities nationwide.
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Under the terms of the partnership, Uber drivers will gain exclusive access to Revel’s 250 fast chargers in New York City, receiving discounts based on their status within the rideshare network. Uber has committed to financially supporting Revel up to specified levels, guaranteeing utilization of existing and future EV chargers in the city. Additionally, Uber will share aggregated data to assist Revel in identifying optimal locations for new charging stations.
Andrew Macdonald, Uber’s Senior Vice President of Mobility and Business Operations, highlighted the significance of addressing urban charging challenges in advancing toward an all-electric future. He expressed Uber’s enthusiasm for partnering with Revel to expand EV charging infrastructure, ensuring that it benefits both EV drivers and city residents.
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As part of the agreement, Uber drivers will enjoy discounts of up to 25% on Revel’s charging rates, determined by their status in Uber Pro, the company’s driver rewards program. Revel’s charging stations, open to the public 24/7, operate on a pay-per-use basis without additional access or parking fees, allowing drivers to charge quickly and return to work.
While Revel currently operates the three largest fast-charging stations in New York City, the partnership aims to extend the network’s coverage to more neighborhoods in need. Frank Reig, Revel’s co-founder and CEO, emphasized the partnership’s focus on accelerating EV infrastructure development in densely populated urban areas. With Uber’s commitment to demand at charging sites, Revel plans to expand its network rapidly, beginning with New York City and expanding to cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Boston.
Revel’s ongoing project near LaGuardia Airport, featuring 48 fast charger piles in the designated “for-hire” waiting area, is expected to become the largest public fast-charging station near any U.S. airport. This development will offer Uber drivers convenient access to reliable fast charging, further solidifying the benefits of the Revel-Uber partnership for the EV community.
