Ride-sharing apps are getting a makeover these days, and it seems like the transformation is electric. GM wants to entice Uber drivers toward the Chevy Bolt EV, an affordable member of the electric vehicle segment. The incentive? Employee pricing, and 20 percent off of charging accessories.
A much-needed perk for Uber drivers
Since the California Assembly Bill 5 (AB-5) went into play, Uber drivers (and a whole slew of other independent contractors) across the state have struggled to make their way. Now, a new proposed rule from the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor may nationalize these difficulties.
At the same time, Uber drivers across the nation make an average of $30,327 per year, which is 40% below the national salary average. All of this is taking place while the pandemic continues to rear its ugly head within America.
With all these struggles in mind, is GM’s latest move a much-needed gesture for Uber drivers?
The Chevy Bolt EV offering is just a piece of GM’s electric puzzle
GM has already announced their plans to release at least 20 electric models by the year 2023. With the knowledge that ride-sharing apps actually contribute 47% more carbon emissions than the alternatives of driving alone, taking public transit, bicycling or walking, it seems that the company is really stepping up their game.
GM says that on-demand service providers like Uber drivers have the potential to be a driving factor in tailpipe emission reduction. While Uber is not directly granting drivers electric vehicles to make this happen, GM’s partnership is symbolic of a helping hand.
We’re sure this move also has something to do with the fact that Bolts accounted for less than one percent of GM’s total automotive sales in 2018 — and that the corporation is looking to increase the model’s revenue.
The details of the Chevy Bolt EV deal for Uber drivers
Here are some details on the initiative for Uber drivers who want to snag this stellar deal and make the switch to electric:
- Drivers must be within the U.S. and Canada.
- With the employee discount, Uber drivers can snag the Chevy Bolt EV for upwards of $2,900 off the MSRP.
- At-home charging equipment for the Bolt will be 20% off.
- GM Financial is also offering Denver- and LA-based Uber drivers who are well-qualified and have Diamond-tier status special financing on the vehicle. If the pilot program goes well, they may expand to more cities.
If Uber drivers opt for the 2021 model, they’ll get some serious upgrades
Driver assistance is coming to the 2021 Chevy Bolt EV in the form of adaptive cruise control (the new crossover also offers semi-autonomous driving features, but that’s a story for another time).
Drivers will also enjoy a longer range, up to 259 miles instead of the previous year’s 238. This could make a huge difference for an Uber driver looking to stay on the clock.