Uber’s BYD Partnership: Discounts, Charging & Warranty Explained [ez-toc] Introduction In 2024, Uber officially partnered with BYD to accelerate the UK’s shift toward electric ride-hailing. As part of this partnership, Uber drivers now get exclusive access to discounted BYD vehicles, EV incentives, and charging deals that drastically reduce the total cost of ownership. Whether you’re considering the Dolphin, Atto 3, or Seal, here’s a full breakdown of what this partnership includes—and how to take advantage of it as a licensed Uber or PCO driver.   Uber Discount: Save Up to £12,000 on a New BYD Through its Clean Air Plan and negotiated fleet discounts, Uber drivers can save thousands when choosing BYD: BYD Model Retail Price Uber Discount Final Price Range Dolphin ~£25,000 £4,000–£5,000 ~£20,000–£21,000 Atto 3 ~£36,000 £5,000–£6,000 ~£30,000–£31,000 Seal ~£40,000+ £6,000–£7,000 ~£33,000–£35,000 These prices often include delivery, registration, and Uber-readiness (PHV-compliant). To qualify: You must be a London-based Uber driver Have completed a minimum number of eligible trips Purchase or lease through approved Uber-BYD partners   EV Charging Support with Octopus & bp pulse Uber and BYD have also partnered with Octopus Energy and bp pulse to ease charging access: Included Perks: Free bp pulse credit (£200–£350 depending on model) Discounted Octopus Electroverse home charging tariffs (if you install a charger) Access to 5,000+ public chargers across the UK Support for Uber Green trips with EV-only incentives All benefits are tracked and managed through the Uber Driver app or BYD partner apps.   6-Year BYD Warranty for Peace of Mind BYD offers one of the most generous warranties in the Uber EV space: 6 years / 125,000 miles bumper-to-bumper 8 years / 100,000 miles on battery and motor components 3-year roadside assistance included on all models For Uber drivers covering 40,000+ miles/year, this warranty adds serious long-term protection—especially compared to standard 3-year EV warranties from other brands.   Optional Bundles for Drivers Some BYD partners also offer all-in-one driver packages, including: EV + PHV licensing Uber insurance + servicing Charging credit + installation Uber platform re-verification These packages are ideal for drivers who want to get started fast with zero upfront cost through lease-to-own models.   Getting Started: How to Access the BYD Offer Log in to the Uber Driver app Tap into the “Vehicle” tab, then click on Uber Clean Air Plan View BYD options and select your preferred model Visit or call an approved Uber-BYD dealership Complete onboarding and claim your discount + charging bundle Don’t buy a BYD from just any dealer if you want Uber perks—it must be an Uber-approved seller.   Why This Partnership Matters This partnership isn’t just about selling cars—it’s part of Uber’s mission to become a fully electric platform in London by 2025. By making electric vehicles more affordable and operationally viable for PCO drivers, Uber and BYD are reshaping what it means to drive professionally in a major city.   🔗 Previous in this series: BYD vs. Toyota Prius: Total Cost Comparison for Uber Drivers BYD Models for Uber: Dolphin, Atto 3 & Seal Reviewed

PCO License Application: Common Rejection Reasons & How to Fix Them [ez-toc] Introduction Applying for a PCO license in London through TfL is a crucial step for any aspiring Uber, Bolt, or PHV driver. But every year, thousands of applications are delayed or rejected—often for avoidable mistakes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common PCO application rejection reasons, how to fix or avoid them, and what to do if you’ve already been refused.   1. Incorrect or Incomplete Medical Form Issue: TfL requires a Group 2 Medical Examination (TPH/204 form), completed by your own GP or one with access to your medical records. 🔻 Common mistakes: Using a private doctor not approved by TfL Missing the GP’s stamp or incorrect date Not disclosing existing health conditions ✅ How to fix: Use only TfL-approved GPs Ensure the doctor completes every section, especially eyesight and blood pressure If you have a condition (e.g., diabetes), provide supporting letters from your specialist 2. Failed or Missing DBS (Criminal Background) Check Issue: TfL requires an Enhanced DBS check via their approved partner (GBG or First Advantage). 🔻 Common mistakes: Submitting a standard DBS (not enhanced) Expired DBS (older than 6 months at submission) Failing to declare convictions or cautions ✅ How to fix: Use TfL’s online portal to initiate the DBS properly If you have convictions, submit a full explanation letter (with evidence of rehabilitation, if possible) Important: Minor historic offences don’t always result in a rejection—but hiding them might.   3. Incomplete Application or Missing Documents Issue: Incomplete applications are the most frequent cause of delays. 🔻 Missing items include: Proof of right to work in the UK (e.g., biometric residence card, share code) Proof of address (utility bill/bank letter dated within 3 months) NI number (many forget this!) ✅ How to fix: Use TfL’s document checklist before submission Double check expiry dates on documents and photocopies   4. Failing the Topographical Test Issue: The topo assessment is mandatory unless you’re a licensed black cab driver. 🔻 Common problems: Lack of practice with map reading or route planning Getting confused between start and destination points Time pressure during the test ✅ How to fix: Use apps like Uber’s free topographical test prep or YouTube walkthroughs Book a mock test through a PCO training centre Practice using A–Z London maps Tip: Centres like Sidcup have higher pass rates due to better support and calm testing environments.   5. Not Meeting TfL’s English Requirement TfL requires proof of English language proficiency, especially for non-native speakers. ✅ Acceptable options: UK degree or Level 2 English certificate (within the last 10 years) Pass the SERU (Safety, Equality & Regulatory Understanding) test, which includes English comprehension 📌 Many rejections happen when applicants don’t upload documents on time or fail the English test without preparation.   6. Outdated Driving Licence or Less Than 3 Years of Driving You must have held a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years. 🔻 Applications are auto-rejected if: Licence has expired Foreign licence is not converted to UK licence before applying 3-year threshold is not yet met ✅ How to fix: Check your DVLA record online Apply for UK licence conversion if needed Wait until you meet the 3-year requirement before applying   What to Do If Your Application Is Rejected TfL allows you to reapply immediately unless banned for false information Review your rejection letter carefully—TfL will state the reason Fix the issue and re-submit with corrections In some cases, appeals are allowed—especially for medical or DBS rejections.   🔗 Next in this series: 👉 Uber Driver Earnings with a PCO License: Realistic Numbers & ROI