Uber is taking a different approach to its operations in China. (Photo : Reuters)
Car-sharing service mobile application Uber, Inc. announced on Friday that it has sealed a deal with Chinese automaker BYD Co. Ltd. regarding an electric car test program, Reuters reported on Friday.
According to the Reuter exclusive, the test program was launched a few weeks ago in Chicago. Uber eyes on expanding the initiative to other cities as well.
Uber spokeswoman Lauren Alltmin stated that the venture is Silicon Valley's first project that will focus on electric vehicles.
"We've seen interest in the program already from current and potential Chicago drivers," she remarked.
The said program is Uber's way of helping drivers either buy or lease cars, new or old. The car-sharing mobile app tapped Chinese automaker BYD known for its effort to promote eco-friendlyvehicles.
Currently, BYD e6 vehicles are available via Green Wheels U.S.A, a Chicago car dealership whose main focus includes hybrid and electric cars. It is also involved in establishing EV charging stations.
Doug Snowe, Green Wheels's president, said that there are 25 BYD vehicles roaming on Chicago streets. By the end of 2015, it aims to add a couple of hundred more units of the vehicles.
Uber's Altmin revealed that the dialogues among the three companies started in the latter part of 2014.
For China's BYD, the venture is a significant instrument in achieving its goal of selling its electric mobiles to the U.S. market, which is currently dominated by Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. and Tesla Motors, Inc.
BYD, which stands for "build your dream," was only able to employ its cars in pilot programs in the U.S.
