Uber Launches AI Assistant to Help Drivers Transition to EVs

Uber Technologies is set to introduce an AI assistant, powered by OpenAI’s technology, to support drivers transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its efforts to reduce emissions.

The ride-hailing company, which has long advocated for a switch to EVs, previously committed $800 million to help its driver partners fully transition to electric vehicles by 2040.

The AI assistant, based on OpenAI’s GPT-4, was unveiled at Uber’s Go-Get Zero event in London on Tuesday and is expected to launch in the U.S. early next year before expanding globally.

The chatbot will offer personalized guidance tailored to drivers’ locations and available incentives. Uber also plans to expand its use to handle queries beyond EVs in early 2025.

Also Read: Tesla plans to build affordable electric vehicles

Currently, around 180,000 Uber drivers are transitioning to EVs each month in North America and Europe. CEO Dara Khosrowshahi noted, “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.”

In addition to the AI assistant, Uber is launching a mentorship program to connect experienced EV drivers with those looking to switch. The company is also offering top merchants on its food delivery platform $50,000 to support their sustainability initiatives.

To further promote EV adoption, Uber will host a series of pop-up events where customers can test EVs.