Uber launches data feature for "emissions savings"
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
/2024/03/10/1710084820020.gif?w=3840)
Image courtesy of Uber
Uber just unveiled app features that give riders data on carbon dioxide emissions avoided, if they use electric vehicle and hybrid options.
Why it matters: The ride-hailing giant hopes for a climate-friendly feedback loop.
- "[W]e're excited to launch this new feature to both celebrate your impact and encourage greener choices when using Uber," CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said in a statement.
The big picture: The "Emissions Savings" feature tracks effects of using the Uber Green and Uber Comfort Electric options.
- It calculates CO2 savings relative to UberX and Uber Comfort trips of the same distance.
- In a nod to climate concerns from the young, Uber is also making the green and comfort electric options available to teen account holders.
- That initially starts in 15+ cities in the U.S. and Canada.
Friction point: Ride-hailing's CO2 impact is tricky to measure. But some studies in recent years see gasoline-powered rides as a climate loser.
- That's because of miles driven without passengers, congestion, and cannibalizing less polluting options like mass transit or bikes.
Catch up quick: Uber in 2020 set a target of being a zero emissions platform in the U.S., Canada, and European cities by 2030
- But hitting those goals would mean a huge increase from current levels — and it's only partially under Uber's control. Cars are privately owned, though Uber offers various incentives for driver EV use and charging.
- And the company has also cautioned it depends on the wider policy and auto industry environment.
What's next: Uber plans to add more dimensions to the emissions-saving feature, such as effects of using UberX Share and e-bikes and e-scooters booked on the app.
