New Arrival Car aims to help Uber go electric

The UK-based electric-vehicle start-up Arrival has unveiled the Arrival Car – a people-carrier model designed in collaboration with, and for use by, ride-hailing services like Uber. The firm announced an agreement with the US company to develop a ride-hailing vehicle earlier in 2021 and has now revealed its initial design.

Arrival has until now been known for its bus, truck and delivery-van projects; this is its first passenger car. It says the Car "has been designed specifically for the ride-hailing industry to give the best experience for both drivers and passengers and bring clean air to urban environments where most ride-hailing mileage occurs."

It points to particular emphasis on visibility and comfort, claiming double the legroom of most other cars the same length. The company spent six months consulting with current Uber drivers to design the car, and their feedback will also be taken on board during the testing phase, which is set to begin shortly.

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Tom Elvidge, Arrival's executive vice-president for vehicle platforms said: "Over the past six months, we have been working closely with Uber’s drivers to create a vehicle specifically for the ride-hailing industry, and making it affordable, durable and great to look at.

"Electrifying ride-hailing will play a crucial role in reducing the emissions of vehicles in cities globally, providing a sustainable, clean, multi-modal transportation system for communities. We are keen on supporting drivers with this transition by developing the best possible product for ride-hailing that elevates the experience for both them and their passengers, making urban air clean in the process."

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Jamie Heywood, Uber's regional general manager for northern and eastern Europe, added: “The reveal of the Arrival Car is an exciting moment for Uber drivers, who are switching to electric vehicles at a much faster rate than the mass market. This exciting new vehicle will support our commitment for all cars on the app in London to be fully electric by 2025, helping to drive a green recovery and clean up urban transport.”

No exact technical details about the Car's performance, battery size, charging speeds or anticipated driving range have been shared yet, although it's expected to use technology under the metal that has already been developed for the Arrival van, truck and bus models. No expected date for its introduction to service has been given, either.