Incentives for Switching to EVs: Uber £5K, Government Grants & Charging Perks [ez-toc] Introduction Switching to an electric vehicle might seem expensive—but for Uber and PCO drivers in London, the incentives available in 2024 make the switch easier (and cheaper) than ever. From Uber’s £5,000 Clean Air grant to government EV schemes, you could save thousands while future-proofing your license. In this guide, we break down all the financial and operational benefits of going electric as a PHV driver.   1. Uber’s £5,000 Clean Air Plan Grant Uber’s Clean Air Plan allows drivers to accumulate savings based on completed trips, which can be used toward the purchase or lease of an electric vehicle. Eligibility: Uber drivers who completed trips in a hybrid or petrol car since 2019 Amount: Up to £5,000 How it works: Accrues automatically and is visible in your Driver app Redemption: Can be applied to approved EV purchases or long-term rentals Tip: Check your Clean Air balance in the Uber Driver app under “Vehicle options” → “Clean Air Plan”.   2. Government EV Incentives for PCO Drivers While the Plug-in Car Grant officially ended for private buyers, several UK and TfL schemes still apply to PCO drivers: -Plug-in Taxi Grant (PiTG): For black cab-style electric vehicles (e.g., LEVC TX) Worth up to £7,500 off the cost of an eligible vehicle -Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS): Up to £350 per charging point (max 40 points per business) Ideal for Uber drivers who work through a PCO fleet or rental company -EV Infrastructure Grants for Landlords: For drivers in flats or rental properties, landlords can get up to £850 per parking space to install home chargers -3. Free and Discounted Charging Credits EV charging can be affordable—or free—if you use the right networks and programs: bp pulse for Uber Drivers: Up to £350 in free charging credits 24/7 access to 8,000+ charge points across the UK Octopus Electroverse: Access to multiple charging networks in one app Discounts for Uber EV drivers who sign up with select BYD/Kia packages Co-Charger App: Find neighbours renting out their home EV chargers at low rates Smart Strategy: Charge during off-peak hours using public networks to save up to 50% compared to peak pricing.   Long-Term Financial Benefits Factor Petrol Car Electric Car ULEZ & Congestion Fees £27.50/day £0 Fuel vs. Charging (weekly) £160 £50 Uber Clean Air Bonus ❌ ✅ £5,000 Maintenance High Low Platform Access (2025) ❌ Not eligible ✅ Fully eligible Full-time EV Uber drivers can save £3,000–£5,000+ per year compared to petrol equivalents.   How to Claim These Incentives Check your Uber Clean Air balance Choose a vehicle from an Uber-approved dealership or PCO partner Register with a charging network like bp pulse or Octopus Talk to your landlord or property manager about WCS grants Apply for government infrastructure support if eligible   🔗 Earlier in This Series: Uber’s 2025 EV Deadline: What Happens to Petrol Cars? Best Electric 7-Seaters for Uber: E-Traveller, EQV, BYD Tang

Black Cabs vs. Uber: Driver Requirements Compared [ez-toc] Introduction As London evolves, so does the competition between traditional black cabs and modern ride-hailing platforms like Uber. If you’re considering becoming a driver in the capital, the differences in requirements, training, and costs between these two options are significant. In this guide, we’ll break down the main distinctions between London black cab and Uber PCO driver requirements to help you make the most informed decision.   Training & Qualification Black Cab Drivers: Must pass The Knowledge, which takes 3–4 years of intensive study and multiple oral exams. Typically walk or cycle every route to memorise key landmarks, hotels, theaters, and restaurants across London. Require deep familiarity with over 6,000 points of interest and 320 runs. Uber (PCO) Drivers: Need a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence, issued by TfL. Basic requirements: enhanced DBS check, medical fitness, English language assessment, and topographical skills test. Training usually takes 3–6 weeks and can often be done while working another job. Conclusion: If you prefer a quicker entry into the market, Uber is more accessible. For those who value legacy and prestige, the black cab route offers unmatched credibility.   Vehicle Rules Black Cabs: Must use a TfL-approved black cab, such as the LEVC TX or Mercedes Vito. Vehicles must be wheelchair accessible. Regular inspections ensure high standards of cleanliness and safety. Uber (PCO) Vehicles: Must meet TfL’s emission and size standards. Can be any four-door vehicle, but EVs and hybrids are now encouraged. More flexibility in choosing your car, including rental options. Tip: If you’re interested in EV options for Uber, check out our guide on Top 5 EVs for Uber in London.   Earnings & Costs   Feature Black Cab Drivers Uber Drivers Training Cost £10,000–£15,000 (avg) £300–£700 Time to Start Driving 3–4 years 3–6 weeks Vehicle Cost (Purchase) £60,000–£70,000 £10,000–£40,000 Platform Fees None 25%–30% commission to Uber Hourly Earnings Potential £20–£35/hr £15–£30/hr (variable) For those concerned about initial investment, PCO car rental for Uber drivers provides a lower-risk way to start driving, with weekly rates ranging from £180–£250 depending on the vehicle type and provider. Note: Black cab drivers keep 100% of fares, but overheads are higher. Uber drivers benefit from flexible hours but face app-related fees. Public Perception & Regulation Black cab drivers often benefit from strong public trust and unrestricted access to bus lanes and priority zones, which Uber drivers can’t access. However, Uber drivers enjoy flexible schedules, lower startup costs, and incentives for driving low-emission vehicles.   References: Curious how the Knowledge test is changing? Check out: How London’s Black Cab ‘Knowledge’ Test Is Changing in 2025 Looking ahead to future trends? Don’t miss: Can Black Cabs Survive? The Future of London Taxis

How London’s Black Cab ‘Knowledge’ Test Is Changing in 2025 [ez-toc] Introduction For decades, becoming a London black cab driver meant memorising a labyrinth of 25,000 streets and over 6,000 landmarks—a mental map known as “The Knowledge”. But in 2025, this legendary exam is evolving. Transport for London (TfL) is set to modernise the Knowledge test to align with today’s tech-driven transport world, while still preserving the high standards of licensed taxi drivers.   What Is Changing in 2025? TfL plans to revise the format and delivery of the Knowledge test. The core structure—routes, points of interest, and geographical awareness—will remain. However, there will be: Increased digital integration: More use of virtual mapping tools during the assessment process. Structured modules: Candidates will now face separate modules covering geographic knowledge, customer service, and urban navigation theory. Online progress tracking: Students will be able to access real-time feedback through TfL’s upcoming candidate portal. Greater transparency: TfL will release a digital map of all 6,000+ test points, giving candidates clearer expectations on what to study.   Why the Update? London’s transport scene has shifted dramatically in the last decade. With the rise of GPS-based navigation used by Uber, Bolt, and other services, public sentiment is questioning why black cab drivers must undergo such a rigorous test. TfL’s move aims to: Maintain the quality and trust in black cab drivers Attract new applicants put off by the exam’s perceived difficulty Reflect the digital tools already integrated into London transport systems   What Will Stay the Same? The depth of city knowledge: You’ll still need to master runs and recall locations without aid. Oral examinations: Face-to-face route planning remains a key element. Minimum 3-4 years of preparation: Even with streamlined tools, the journey remains challenging.    Fun Fact: The Knowledge has been described as the hardest test of any kind in the world. Brain scans show Knowledge students develop enlarged hippocampi—similar to memory athletes!   References: Coming next: Black Cabs vs. Uber: Driver Requirements Compared – for a side-by-side view of training, costs, and flexibility. Referenced again in: Can Black Cabs Survive? The Future of London Taxis – where we explore whether these changes are enough.  

Can Black Cabs Survive? The Future of London Taxis [ez-toc] Introduction London’s iconic black cabs have been a staple of the city for over a century. But in the age of ride-hailing apps, electric vehicles, and evolving urban mobility, the black cab industry is facing a critical crossroads. Can it adapt — or is it on the path to extinction? This blog dives into key challenges, changing public behavior, and whether black cabs can realistically survive in the years to come.   The Numbers: A Declining Trend Over the past decade, the number of black cab drivers has steadily declined. According to TfL: In 2012, there were over 25,000 licensed black cab drivers. By 2024, this p dropped below 14,000, largely due to retirements, rising costs, and drivers switching to Uber or Bolt. Meanwhile, PHV (Uber-style) drivers have increased, with over 100,000 active PCO licences in London as of 2024. Insight: The long training period and financial investment required to become a cabbie are becoming harder to justify in a gig-economy landscape.   Why Are Black Cabs Struggling? Tech Convenience Ride-hailing apps offer seamless bookings, upfront pricing, and real-time tracking — features black cabs are still catching up on. Cost Barriers Black cabs must buy TfL-approved vehicles (typically LEVC TX models), which can cost £60K–£70K new — far more than the average Uber car. Knowledge Test As discussed in How London’s Black Cab ‘Knowledge’ Test Is Changing in 2025, the process takes 3–4 years, making it unattractive to younger drivers. Emission Rules All new taxis must be zero-emission capable, pushing older drivers out and increasing operational costs.   Competition from Uber & Co. Uber drivers can be on the road in a matter of weeks, not years. Platforms like Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow offer in-app promotions, discounts, and driver incentives that black cabs lack. Uber’s investment in EVs and partnerships (see Uber’s EV Partnerships: Discounts on Kia, BYD & Tesla Models) is reshaping market expectations. Fact: Many former black cab drivers have joined Uber due to better work-life balance and reduced financial risk. Why many black cab drivers are switching to Uber However, it’s worth noting that while Uber offers easier entry and flexible hours, some drivers face challenges when dealing with Uber car accident claims, especially in cases where insurance coverage or platform liability is unclear.   Regulatory Lifelines: Will They Be Enough? London’s government has tried to support black cabs through: ULEZ exemptions for ZEC taxis. Plug-in Taxi Grants of up to £7,500. Dedicated taxi-only lanes and priority zones. But whether these are enough to compete with Uber’s global scale and rapid tech adoption remains unclear.   Opportunities for Revival App Integration Apps like Gett and FreeNow now allow users to book black cabs with the same convenience as Uber. Green Innovation Black cabs going all-electric (e.g., the LEVC TX) offer a clean alternative with longer passenger comfort and wheelchair accessibility. Tourist Trust Many visitors still trust black cabs over Uber — especially at airports and tourist hotspots.   Verdict: Adapt or Disappear? The black cab’s survival isn’t guaranteed. It hinges on adapting to modern mobility expectations while preserving its unmatched knowledge, safety, and trust. With smart regulation, digitisation, and green transition, black cabs can still carve a niche — but without change, their future is uncertain.   References: Read how it all started: How London’s Black Cab ‘Knowledge’ Test Is Changing in 2025 Compare career options here: Black Cabs vs. Uber: Driver Requirements Compared

How to Get a Replacement PCO Car After a Non-Fault Accident [ez-toc] Introduction Being involved in an accident as a PCO-licensed Uber driver is stressful—but losing your ability to earn while your car is off the road makes it even worse. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you may be eligible for a free replacement vehicle while yours is being repaired or assessed. These are known as courtesy PCO cars, and getting one is easier than you might think—if you know the process. This guide walks you through who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect when getting a replacement PCO vehicle after a non-fault accident in London.   What Is a Courtesy PCO Car? A courtesy PCO car is a fully licensed, Uber-approved replacement vehicle provided to you while your own car is off the road due to an accident. These vehicles are: Fully insured for private hire use Uber-ready (with PCO plate and stickers) Delivered to your location in most cases They’re designed to keep you earning while insurance and repairs are sorted.   Who Is Eligible for a Replacement Car? To get a courtesy PCO car, you must meet the following conditions: The accident wasn’t your fault (clear liability is essential). You reported the accident immediately to your insurer and the third party’s insurer. Your insurance is up to date and includes correct use (PHV/PCO). You have a valid PCO license, and your damaged car was also PCO-licensed. If the fault is unclear or there’s a dispute, providers might delay issuing a replacement until liability is established.   How the Process Works (Step-by-Step) Report the Accident Notify your insurer within 24 hours. Get a copy of the accident report and third-party details. Call a Claims Management Company (CMC) They will assess your case and handle the process. If accepted, they’ll arrange a like-for-like replacement PCO car. Receive Your Courtesy Vehicle Most CMCs will deliver a fully insured Uber-ready car to your home or pick-up spot. You can use this car for Uber or other ride-hailing platforms as usual. Vehicle Return Once your vehicle is repaired, or compensation is paid (if it’s written off), you’ll return the courtesy car. Important: Never admit fault at the scene. Liability is determined later—your eligibility depends on proving you weren’t at fault.   Documents You’ll Likely Need Driving licence PCO badge Insurance policy details Uber or Bolt profile screenshot Police/accident report number (if available)   When You Might Not Qualify You may be denied a replacement if: You caused the accident You don’t have proof of Uber/PHV activity Your PCO documents or insurance aren’t valid You delayed reporting the incident In some cases, you may still get help through your insurer’s standard courtesy car policy—but it may not be Uber-ready.   What’s Next? Looking for trusted help after an accident? Check out our next blog: Best Claims Management Companies for Uber Drivers

BYD Models for Uber: Dolphin, Atto 3 & Seal Reviewed [ez-toc] Introduction With BYD becoming one of Uber’s key EV partners in the UK, many PCO and private hire drivers are eyeing their lineup. But which BYD model is best suited for Uber? Whether you’re doing Comfort or UberX trips, long hours or short bursts, there’s likely a BYD that fits your needs. In this blog, we break down the BYD Dolphin, Atto 3, and Seal, evaluating real-world performance, passenger experience, charging speed, and suitability for PCO use.   BYD Dolphin – The Value Leader for UberX The BYD Dolphin is making a name for itself among Uber drivers thanks to its affordability, excellent EV range, and clean interior layout. Key Specs: Real-world range: 210–260 miles (depending on model) Charging: 10–80% in ~30 mins (88kW DC fast charge) Boot Space: 345L Passenger seats: 5 Why Uber drivers love it: Ideal for city routes and medium-length airport runs Qualifies for Uber Green and Clean Air Plan incentives Budget-friendly, especially with Uber partner discounts Best for: Full-time UberX drivers looking to cut costs while staying ULEZ & Congestion Charge exempt.   BYD Atto 3 – The All-Rounder for Uber Comfort The Atto 3 is a compact SUV designed for both driver comfort and passenger satisfaction—an excellent middle ground between cost and experience. Key Specs: Range: 260–280 miles Boot Space: 440L Charging: 88kW DC (30–35 min rapid charge) Interior: Spacious, with rotating touchscreen and ambient lighting Why Uber drivers love it: Extra boot space makes it great for airport trips High headroom and soft seats = higher rider ratings Eligible for Uber Comfort, unlocking higher fares Best for: Drivers who want to maximise both daily earnings and 5-star reviews.   BYD Seal – Uber Premier Potential The BYD Seal is a sleek, high-performance electric sedan often compared to the Tesla Model 3. While more expensive, it targets Uber Premier drivers or those who want a luxury experience. Key Specs: Range: Up to 354 miles (WLTP) Boot Space: 400L Charging: Up to 150kW fast charging Drive type: RWD / AWD options available Why Uber drivers love it: Stunning design and acceleration (0–60mph in under 6 seconds) Luxury interior comparable to BMW or Audi Perfect for long-distance rides or premium clients Best for: Uber Premier or high-end drivers seeking a next-level EV experience.   Quick Comparison Chart Feature Dolphin Atto 3 Seal Range (real) 210–260 mi 260–280 mi 300–350+ mi Uber Category UberX, Green UberX, Comfort Comfort, Premier Starting Price ~£20,000 ~£30,000 ~£39,000+ Charging Speed 88kW 88kW 150kW+ Boot Space 345L 440L 400L Verdict: Which One Should You Pick? Choose the Dolphin if you’re UberX focused and want the lowest running cost. Go with the Atto 3 if you need more space, ride Comfort, and earn more per trip. Opt for the Seal if you plan to drive Uber Premier or want an EV that makes a visual and comfort statement. Tip: All BYD models are ULEZ & Congestion Charge exempt, and qualify for the Uber Clean Air grant. Bonus Tip: If you’re investing in a new EV for Uber and experience an accident or damage, make sure to understand the Uber insurance claim process. Timely documentation and working with a trusted claims advisor can speed up repairs and reduce income loss. 🔗 Next in this series: 👉 Uber’s BYD Partnership: Discounts, Charging & Warranty Explained

Toyota Prius vs. Corolla Hybrid: Which Is Better for Uber? [ez-toc] Introduction When it comes to hybrid cars for Uber drivers in London, Toyota dominates the conversation. But with the rise of the Corolla Hybrid, many drivers are asking: Is it time to move on from the Prius? In this detailed comparison, we break down how the Toyota Prius stacks up against the newer Corolla Hybrid across the categories that matter most to PCO drivers—fuel economy, passenger space, ride comfort, cost, and long-term value.   Overview: Why These Two Dominate Uber Roads Toyota Prius: Long-time favourite of Uber drivers. Known for unmatched fuel efficiency, reliability, and PCO-friendliness. Toyota Corolla Hybrid: Sportier, newer, and slightly cheaper. Gaining popularity among city drivers for its modern look and nimble handling. Both are ULEZ-compliant, hybrid-powered, and PCO-eligible.   Purchase & Rental Cost Comparison Feature Prius Hybrid Gen 4 Corolla Hybrid 1.8L New purchase price ~£27,500 ~£25,000 Used (3–4 years old) £13,000–£18,000 £12,000–£16,000 Weekly rental (PCO-ready) £220–£250 £200–£230 Verdict: The Corolla Hybrid is more affordable both upfront and via rental—making it a strong choice for new Uber drivers. For new drivers not ready to commit to a purchase, Toyota PCO car rental in London offers a flexible way to get on the road with either the Prius or Corolla Hybrid. Weekly rental plans often include insurance and maintenance. This is ideal for full-time or part-time Uber drivers. Fuel Efficiency: MPG Showdown Driving Mode Prius (Gen 4) Corolla Hybrid Urban/City 65–70 MPG 60–65 MPG Motorway 58–62 MPG 55–60 MPG Both are incredibly efficient, but the Prius edges out the Corolla for long-distance city driving. Over the year, that could mean £200–£300 in fuel savings.   Boot Space & Passenger Comfort Prius: 502L boot space (ideal for luggage-heavy riders & airport runs) Corolla: 361L boot space (tight for large suitcases, but fine for day-to-day) Both models seat five passengers, but the Prius has a roomier cabin, especially for rear passengers. Verdict: If you focus on airport trips or Comfort-tier rides, the Prius wins for space and comfort.   Reliability & Maintenance Both vehicles share Toyota’s hybrid platform and are exceptionally reliable. Maintenance costs: Similar (~£400–£500/year) Battery warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles Spare parts: Readily available for both The Prius has a longer track record in the private hire industry, so garages are more familiar with its quirks.   Resale & Long-Term Value Factor Prius Corolla Hybrid Depreciation rate Slower Slightly faster Uber resale value Higher demand Growing demand Average resale (5 yrs) £9,000–£11,000 £7,500–£9,000 The Prius maintains its value better thanks to high demand in the second-hand Uber market.   Final Verdict: Prius or Corolla? Category Winner Upfront Cost Corolla Fuel Economy Prius Boot Space Prius Comfort & Ride Prius Style & Handling Corolla Uber-Specific ROI Prius Verdict: If you’re starting out or prioritising budget, the Corolla is a solid, stylish choice. But if you’re an airport regular or aiming for long-term profitability, the Prius is still king.   🔗 Next in this series: 👉 Hybrids for ULEZ: Top 5 Models Compared

Hybrids for ULEZ: Top 5 Models Compared for Uber Drivers (2025) [ez-toc] Introduction With ULEZ fully enforced across London, Uber drivers need a vehicle that’s compliant, fuel-efficient, and reliable enough to handle the daily grind. While electric vehicles are rising in popularity, hybrids remain a smart middle-ground—especially if you don’t have access to charging. In this blog, we’ll break down the top 5 ULEZ-compliant hybrid cars perfect for Uber drivers in 2024, ranked by MPG, boot space, rider comfort, and cost-efficiency.   What Makes a Good Hybrid for Uber? A great Uber hybrid should offer: High fuel economy (55+ MPG) Spacious interior and boot Proven reliability ULEZ-compliance (Euro 6 petrol engines or better) Low maintenance and affordable parts   1. Toyota Prius Hybrid (Gen 4) Still the Uber gold standard. MPG: 65–70 Boot: 502L ULEZ: ✅ Strengths: Longest legacy in PHV use, great resale value, spacious rear seats Best for: Full-time Uber drivers and airport runs 2. Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid A direct Prius competitor with a sleek look and smooth ride. MPG: 62–66 Boot: 443L ULEZ: ✅ Strengths: Cheaper than Prius, great fuel economy, minimal cabin noise Best for: City-based UberX drivers who want comfort + savings 3. Toyota Corolla Hybrid A newer favourite that blends efficiency with style. MPG: 60–65 Boot: 361L ULEZ: ✅ Strengths: Lower cost, sporty handling, reliable hybrid tech Best for: Part-time Uber drivers or those just starting out 4. Kia Niro Hybrid A small SUV that offers space without sacrificing economy. MPG: 58–64 Boot: 427L ULEZ: ✅ Strengths: SUV-like comfort, roomy backseat, practical shape Best for: Comfort or XL rides, longer trips 5. Honda Jazz Hybrid Small but mighty—great for city driving and saving on costs. MPG: 58–62 Boot: 304L ULEZ: ✅ Strengths: Low insurance group, easy to park, rock-solid reliability Best for: Urban Uber drivers and those with limited parking   Quick Comparison Table Model MPG (avg) Boot Space ULEZ Rental £/wk Ideal For Prius Gen 4 65–70 502L ✅ £220–£250 Full-time, airport runs Ioniq Hybrid 62–66 443L ✅ £200–£230 Quiet, mid-range rides Corolla Hybrid 60–65 361L ✅ £190–£220 New or part-time drivers Kia Niro Hybrid 58–64 427L ✅ £210–£240 SUV-like comfort Honda Jazz Hybrid 58–62 304L ✅ £180–£210 Budget, city driving If you’re not ready to buy a hybrid outright, PCO car rental in London is a great way to get started. Many companies offer weekly rentals of ULEZ-compliant hybrids like the Prius, Ioniq, or Corolla, often with insurance and maintenance included—perfect for new or part-time Uber drivers.   Which One Should You Choose? Choose Prius if you want high capacity, proven resale, and 5-star reliability. Pick the Ioniq or Corolla for a blend of savings and smoother driving. Try the Kia Niro if you carry luggage or want Comfort/XL flexibility. Opt for Jazz if your budget is tight and you’re doing short trips in dense areas.   Tip: All of these are ULEZ-compliant, helping you save £12.50/day and keep your PCO license future-proof. 🔗 Next in this series: 👉 Hybrid Battery Lifespan: What Uber Drivers Need to Know

Hybrid Battery Lifespan: What Uber Drivers Need to Know   Introduction One of the most common concerns Uber drivers have when choosing a hybrid car is: “How long will the hybrid battery last?” And more importantly—“What will it cost me when it fails?” In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about hybrid battery lifespan, replacement costs, warranty coverage, and how to extend battery life—with a focus on the most popular hybrid models used by London’s Uber drivers.   How Long Do Hybrid Batteries Last? Most hybrid batteries are designed to last 8–10 years or 100,000–150,000 miles. However, many Uber drivers in London report getting up to 200,000 miles on their hybrid battery—especially with Toyota models. For full-time Uber drivers doing 40,000 miles per year, you could expect: 5–6 years of battery life under average driving conditions.   Hybrid Battery Warranties in the UK (2024) Brand Battery Warranty Extended Option Toyota 8 years / 100,000 miles Up to 10 years with service plan Hyundai/Kia 8 years / 100,000 miles Standard for Ioniq, Niro Honda 5 years / 90,000 miles May vary with dealership Toyota’s “Hybrid Health Check” adds 1-year battery cover after each annual service.   Hybrid Battery Replacement Costs (if out of warranty) Model Estimated Cost (UK) Toyota Prius £1,200–£1,800 Toyota Corolla £1,000–£1,500 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid £1,300–£1,800 Kia Niro Hybrid £1,400–£2,000 Honda Jazz Hybrid £1,200–£1,600 Refurbished batteries can save 30–40% but may come with limited guarantees.   Tips to Extend Your Hybrid Battery Life Avoid excessive idling – Hybrids don’t need to idle to recharge. Use EV mode sparingly – Let the system balance engine/battery loads. Get regular hybrid system checks – Especially through Toyota’s Hybrid Health Check. Drive smoothly – Aggressive braking and acceleration degrade the battery faster. Keep your 12V battery in good condition – A weak 12V battery can strain the hybrid system.   Should You Buy a High-Mileage Used Hybrid? If the car has full service history and a recent battery health report—yes. In fact, many Uber drivers successfully use Prius and Ioniq models with 130K+ miles as long as the battery: Passes diagnostic tests Was serviced regularly Has no dashboard error lights Always request a hybrid battery report before buying used.   Is It Worth It to Replace the Battery? If the vehicle is in good condition and Uber-approved, replacing the battery can extend its earning life by 3–5 years—making it more cost-effective than buying a new car. For context: Battery replacement (~£1,400) = Less than 2 months of Uber earnings for most full-time drivers.   🔗 Earlier in this Series: Toyota Prius vs. Corolla Hybrid: Which Is Better for Uber? Hybrids for ULEZ: Top 5 Models Compared   What If Your Battery Fails Due to an Accident or Fault? In cases where your hybrid battery is damaged due to an accident or manufacturer fault, working with a claims management company can help you recover repair or replacement costs more efficiently. Some Uber drivers in London choose to partner with such companies to handle complex insurance or warranty disputes.

Uber’s 2025 EV Deadline: What Happens to Petrol Cars? [ez-toc] Introduction London’s roads are going electric—and Uber is leading the charge. By 2025, Uber has committed to becoming a fully electric platform in London. But what does this mean for petrol vehicles currently used by thousands of PCO drivers? In this blog, we’ll break down Uber’s EV deadline, TfL’s licensing rules, and what Uber and PHV drivers need to do to stay compliant and profitable in the coming years.   Uber’s Electric Goal: 100% EV by 2025 in London Uber has publicly pledged that by the end of 2025, all vehicles operating on its platform in London must be zero-emission capable (ZEC). This means: Petrol-only and older diesel vehicles will be phased out Only electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) will be accepted Drivers will be encouraged (and eventually required) to switch to EVs or modern hybrids Uber has already started removing non-compliant petrol vehicles from onboarding eligibility since 2023.   What Does TfL Say? Transport for London (TfL) has its own regulations for private hire vehicles: As of January 2023, all newly licensed PHVs under 18 months old must be fully electric. Petrol and diesel vehicles already licensed can continue operating until their licence expires. However, TfL has warned that even compliant petrol cars may not be relicensed in future years. If your petrol vehicle is older or due for renewal after 2025, it may not be accepted for PCO renewal.   What Happens If You Still Drive Petrol in 2025? Scenario What Happens Petrol car already licensed Can continue until license expiry Petrol car license due for renewal May not be renewed by TfL Petrol car with high emissions ULEZ charges apply (£12.50/day) Want to join Uber with petrol car Application will likely be rejected If you’re currently driving a petrol vehicle for Uber, now is the time to start planning your switch to hybrid or EV.   What About Larger Vehicles Like 7-Seaters or Lux Cars? Uber’s goal is for all vehicles—including UberXL and Exec—to be electric by 2025. That means: Petrol 7-seaters will be phased out Uber is actively encouraging drivers to switch to electric MPVs or SUVs You’ll still need to meet TfL size requirements (no tiny EVs) Read our next blog: Best Electric 7-Seaters for Uber for a full list of compliant alternatives.   Costs of Keeping a Petrol Car vs. Going Electric Factor Petrol Vehicle (ULEZ) Electric Vehicle (EV) ULEZ charge (daily) £12.50 £0 Fuel cost per week £150–£200 £40–£60 Congestion charge £15/day (if applicable) £0 Uber eligibility (2025+) ❌ Not allowed ✅ Fully allowed What Should You Do Next? Check your current PCO vehicle license expiry date Explore Uber’s EV discounts and Clean Air Fund savings Plan for an upgrade by end of 2024 Start test-driving EV or plug-in hybrid options Switching early means higher incentives, less stress, and access to Uber’s electric-only bonuses.   🔗 Next in this series: Best Electric 7-Seaters for Uber: E-Traveller, EQV, BYD Tang