Uber SA goes Green with electric rides

During the pilot project, riders can request a BMW i3 (pictured) or Nissan Leaf.

During the pilot project, riders can request a BMW i3 (pictured) or Nissan Leaf.

Published May 6, 2016

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BMW and Nissan have teamed up with Uber to set up Uber Green - an electric-car pilot project that'll run from 9 May to 3 June in Johannesburg.

Woolworths Rewards members, especially, will be among the first to have access to these vehicles, before the project opens officially to the public

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During that time, Uber customers will be able to request a BMW i3 or Nissan Leaf battery car at UberX prices - providing a zero-emissions ride (other than from the coal that was burned to generate the electricity in the first place, of course, but that's another political can of worms entirely).

"Uber is about making mobility simpler, more accessible and more sustainable," said general manager for sub-Saharan Africa Alon Lits, "so we're keen to explore alternative options. This partnership is a step towards making changes for the good of our environment."

Since the pilot project is in a trial phase, Uber Green will only be available between 7am and 7pm, and may be restricted to some areas of Johannesburg, especially during rush hour.

Here's how it'll work:

1 Open the Uber app

2 Select the Uber Green option

3 Set your pickup location and request a ride as you normally would.

BMW SA managing director Tim Abbot is keen increase the momentum of electric mobility in South Africa.

"Partnerships such as this one," he said, "help to expose consumers to the viability of electric vehicles and alternative mobility options."

Nissan SA corporate affairs general manager Dudu Mwelase agreed.

"We're excited that like-minded car companies are joining the electric vehicle movement towards a sustainable future," she said.

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