Uber and BYD announced a strategic partnership on Wednesday, enabling drivers on the Uber platform to access pricing and financing options for BYD’s electric vehicles, initially targeting markets in Europe and Latin America. This collaboration aims to introduce up to 100,000 BYD cars to Uber’s fleet, despite recent tariff increases on Chinese electric vehicle imports by the European Union, following similar actions by the United States.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrow Shahi expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its potential benefits for drivers, riders, and urban environments. He stated, “As the largest global agreement of its kind, we’re thrilled about the benefits this partnership will deliver.”

BYD, based in Shenzhen, has established itself as a leading force in China’s electric vehicle market, surpassing Tesla in total vehicle production for two consecutive years. The company has been actively expanding its international presence, including investments in overseas manufacturing facilities. Chuanfu Wang, chairman and president of BYD, emphasized the shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, stating, “Uber and BYD share a commitment to innovate towards a cleaner, greener world.”

The partnership is set to extend to additional regions, including the Middle East, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In 2023, BYD exported over 240,000 vehicles to 70 countries and aims to significantly increase this figure in the coming year.

Stella Li, executive vice president at BYD and CEO of BYD Americas, remarked on the collaboration’s significance for urban mobility, anticipating that BYD’s electric vehicles will become increasingly prevalent in cities worldwide. While specific models were not detailed, promotional materials featured BYD’s Seal sedan, Seal U SUV, and Atto 3 SUV, all available on BYD’s European website.