This is an important step in the evolution of ride-hailing, giving consumers the choice of riding in an electric vehicle. As the infrastructure for ride-hailing increases, many people are taking the significant step of no longer owning a car and completely switching to ride-hailing. This decision is often largely driven by cost but the environmental impact of owning a car which is only used for 5-10% of the day is a growing concern. Therefore empowering ride-hailing users to opt for an EV for their journeys is an excellent step in the road to decarbonising transportation. Whilst legislation exists around the world to switch to electric transportation, consumer pressures are likely to have the greatest impact. I look forward to seeing this approach being rolled out throughout the ride-hailing sector.
Environmentally conscious Lyft riders will soon be able to summon a hybrid or electric vehicle with the tap of an icon, rejecting the conventional combustion engine as their commuting mode of choice, according to a company announcement Wednesday. Lyft’s “Green Mode” seems aimed at easing the concerns of those who rely on ride-hailing to get around but are conscious of the impact their habit might have on the environment. Users will be able to hail one of thousands of new electric vehicles being brought onto the platform along with existing hybrids, beginning first in Seattle on Wednesday before the feature expands to other areas of the country over the rest of 2019.
