Uber and Manchester-based charging network Be.EV launched a 12-month pilot program offering discounted ultra-rapid charging rates to drivers using electric vehicles across England’s North West.
The partnership targets professional drivers who rely on public charging infrastructure – providing both reduced peak-time rates and special overnight pricing during off-peak hours.
Eligible Uber drivers will receive sign-up information directly from the ride-hailing service. Those who join get access to discounted rates across Be.EV’s entire North West network, which includes fast, rapid and ultra-rapid chargers.
Be.EV will waive its standard monthly membership fee for participating drivers throughout the pilot period.
Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, said the partnership focuses on making charging affordable for working drivers.
“Public charging has to work for people who earn their living on the road – especially those without a driveway. This pilot shows what can happen when you treat charging as essential infrastructure for working people, not a luxury.”
The program specifically addresses charging access challenges for drivers without home charging options – a key barrier preventing many professional drivers from switching to electric vehicles.
Andrew Brem, general manager for Uber UK, emphasized the company’s commitment to electrification.
“EVs are better for our drivers, because they can save money by eliminating fuel costs, and better for our cities as EVs mean healthier air for everyone. We know that accessibility to electric chargers is one of the biggest barriers to getting drivers to switch to EVs.”
Charging Network Expansion
Be.EV currently operates 200 charging sites across the UK, with heavy concentration around Manchester where the company was founded.
The charging operator secured significant funding for nationwide expansion – more than £100 million from Octopus Energy Generation plus £55 million in debt facilities from NatWest and KfW IPEX-Bank.
This financial backing supports Be.EV’s plans for continued growth beyond its North West base in coming years.
The pilot program represents a targeted approach to professional driver adoption – addressing both cost concerns and charging location needs for drivers with varied routes across the region.
