Lyft Launches New EV Charging Program

Lyft continues its work trying to electrify its vast network of driver vehicles. Recall that the company has committed to 100% electrification by 2030. It’s latest effort on this path is that it has partnered with West Coast EV charging network EVCS. And it’s not a nothingburger partnership. Lyft drivers will get a discount on the EVCS charging network — which includes DC fast chargers as well as Level 2 charging stations.

EVCS has publicly available charging stations in California, Oregon, and Washington where Lyft drivers can benefit from this deal. In Oregon and Washington, EVCS operates the popular West Coast Electric Highway. The discounts can be used for either monthly subscription plans or pay-as-you-go charging.

While all Lyft drivers can get discounts, Pro drivers get the biggest discounts.

“EV drivers on Lyft can find and start enrolling in the program at any time, through their account on the Lyft app. More information about the program is available here,” EVCS writes.

One very positive note about this EV charging option is that the electricity is from 100% renewable energy.

California has a target of 90% of “rideshare” (app-based ride-hailing) miles being zero emissions by 2030. This partnership between Lyft and EVCS will help California achieve that target.

“Over the past three years, we’ve seen a substantial increase from drivers in making the switch to EVs. However, access to fast, affordable charging continues to be a major barrier to widespread EV adoption,” says Erin Gray, Senior Director of Product at Lyft. “That’s why this partnership with EVCS is so important and why we’re excited to be able to offer it to drivers on Lyft. It will allow them to save more on fuel costs while simultaneously increasing the demand needed to build more infrastructure. It’s a win for drivers, riders and our broader climate goals.”

Will this help more Lyft drivers make the next step, and will it help Lyft drivers make a profit? Let’s hope so!