EVs in the Transportation Industry: Uber, Tesla Now Partnering

Uber Freight and Tesla Partner to Accelerate EVs in Trucking

New Program Targets Wider Use of EVs

Uber Freight, in partnership with Tesla, has launched the Dedicated EV Fleet Accelerator Program. The initiative is designed to help fleets adopt EVs by lowering upfront costs, offering steady freight demand, and supporting charging access.

The program fits into Uber’s broader plan to grow zero-emission transportation. For fleets, it creates a pathway to bring EVs into daily operations without carrying the full risks tied to high prices and new technology.

Cost Barriers

The high cost of purchase remains the biggest obstacle to using EVs in freight. Class 8 electric trucks still cost more than diesel trucks. To reduce that gap, Uber Freight’s program provides subsidies for carriers buying Tesla Semis.

The plan also ties the trucks to multi-year shipper contracts. That gives carriers reliable freight and revenue while giving shippers access to EVs for their own supply chain goals.

Building Routes for EVs and Charging

Charging is another challenge facing electric vehicles in trucking. Fleets want to know routes will match charging points so trucks can run without long delays. Uber Freight is working with Tesla to design freight lanes that connect to the Semi Charger network. This approach aims to make EVs a more realistic choice for regional and long-haul freight.

Projected Savings

EVs could save fleets money over time. Diesel trucks run at 6 to 8 miles per gallon, and fuel prices often sit above $4 per gallon. By comparison, charging costs are estimated to be 20 to 30 percent of the diesel equivalent.

Electric vehicles also require less maintenance. Diesel engines need oil changes and have many parts that wear down. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and simpler drivetrains. Reports suggest fleets could cut maintenance costs by up to 40 percent when switching from diesel.

Adding these savings together, the total cost of ownership could match or beat diesel trucks. Uber Freight’s program is designed to help fleets reach those savings sooner by lowering the initial price.

Pilot Program Shows EVs in Action

Before launching the program widely, Uber Freight tested it with select carriers. Over two months, Tesla Semis ran more than 12,000 miles and logged nearly 400 driving hours. The trucks averaged 1.72 kWh per mile and needed only 60 total hours of charging.

Carriers in the pilot noted savings on fuel and maintenance as well as steady support from Uber Freight.

EVs and the Future of Trucking

The trucking industry is facing pressure to cut emissions while keeping freight moving. Some carriers are interested in EVs but struggle with cost and charging access. This new program from Uber Freight and Tesla aims to bridge that gap.

By offering subsidies, steady freight contracts, and routes tied to Tesla’s charging network, the program may provide fleets with a clearer path. The goal is to make zero-emission trucking a practical choice for fleets today, not just in the future.