Uber Technologies is set to enhance its commitment to sustainability by rolling out an AI assistant powered by OpenAI’s technology. This new initiative, designed to support drivers transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), was announced during Uber’s Go-Get Zero event held in London on Tuesday.
The AI assistant, built on OpenAI’s GPT-4o platform, aims to provide personalized guidance to drivers, helping them navigate the complexities of switching to EVs. Scheduled for launch in early 2025 in the United States, the assistant will later expand to additional locations. It will offer tailored information regarding local incentives and resources available to drivers, making the transition smoother and more accessible.
Uber has long advocated for the adoption of electric vehicles, pledging a substantial $800 million to assist its driver partners in transitioning to EVs by 2040. This commitment reflects the company’s strategic focus on reducing emissions and promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.
Currently, approximately 180,000 Uber drivers in North America and Europe are making the switch to electric vehicles each month. “Uber drivers are adopting EVs five times faster than the average motorist in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. In London, nearly 30% of all miles driven on Uber are now electric,” noted CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, emphasizing the rapid uptake of EVs among the company’s drivers.
In addition to assisting with the EV transition, Uber plans to expand the chatbot’s functionality in early 2025 to address a wider range of queries, further enhancing the support available to drivers.
The introduction of this AI assistant marks a significant step in Uber’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability within the transportation sector. By empowering drivers with personalized, actionable information, Uber aims to accelerate the shift toward electric mobility and contribute to global emissions reduction efforts.
As the company prepares for the rollout, stakeholders and industry observers will be watching closely to see how this initiative impacts driver experiences and the broader adoption of electric vehicles within the ride-hailing sector.
