Uber has announced a significant partnership with ENSO, a 2023 Earthshot Prize finalist, to promote its energy-efficient, low-emission tyres for electric vehicles (EVs) across the UK and USA. The deal will support ENSO’s international growth and provide thousands of Uber drivers access to discounted tyres through a dedicated Buyer’s Club.
This partnership marks Uber’s first collaboration with an Earthshot Prize finalist and is part of its larger commitment to sustainable innovation. The Earthshot Prize, founded by HRH The Prince of Wales, supports solutions to climate challenges, and Uber has joined as a Founding Partner. Uber will work to scale innovative technologies like ENSO's tyres and will nominate other climate-conscious start-ups for the £1 million annual prize.
The announcement also saw Uber become a Founding Partner of The Earthshot Prize, founded by HRH The Prince of Wales to support the most innovative climate solutions. In this new role, Uber will not only support Earthshot Prize finalists but also provide mentorship and additional partnership opportunities for ground-breaking start-ups.
Jill Hazelbaker, CMO and SVP, Communications & Public Policy at Uber, said, "Innovation is in Uber’s DNA, and much more is needed to tackle the climate crisis. That’s why we’re partnering with The Earthshot Prize to offer Uber’s platform as a launchpad for groundbreaking solutions globally – especially those working to accelerate an all-electric future for our planet."
Uber’s capital of electrification, London, plays a pivotal role in this green shift, with almost 30% of its miles now being fully electric. To date, Uber has established a £145 million Clean Air Fund to support drivers in making the transition to electric vehicles.
ENSO, based in London, has pioneered high-performance tyres specifically designed to extend the range of EVs while reducing pollution caused by tyre wear. These tyres contribute to Uber’s mission to create a zero-emission mobility platform by 2040. For drivers, this partnership is also an economic win, as ENSO’s tyres help reduce the total cost of vehicle ownership by offering greater energy efficiency and durability.
Gunnlaugur Erlendsson, Founder and CEO of ENSO, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: "The world needs electric vehicles. They help combat climate change and eliminate harmful tailpipe pollution. ENSO’s mission is to make EVs more successful by extending their range while reducing the pollution from their tyres."
As part of its expansion, ENSO has also announced the development of a $500 million carbon-neutral tyre factory in the USA, set to be operational by 2027. This factory will employ over 600 people and produce more than five million EV tyres annually.
Uber’s partnership with ENSO is not only about improving the range and sustainability of EVs but also a part of a broader initiative to reduce global emissions. Uber aims to be a zero-emissions platform globally by 2040, with North America and Europe achieving this goal by 2030.
This collaboration also sets the stage for Uber’s upcoming climate event, GO-GET Zero, which will take place on 8th October in London. At this event, Uber will introduce new features aimed at making sustainable choices easier for drivers, customers, and merchants.
Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize, praised the collaboration: “The Earthshot Prize spotlights climate solutions from around the world, helping speed them to scale to reach their potential and create true impact. We are proud that the partnership between Uber and 2023 Earthshot Finalist ENSO...provides a perfect example of how the Prize can connect businesses with innovators.”
By partnering with ENSO, Uber is not only supporting a critical climate solution but also paving the way for a greener, more cost-efficient future for its drivers. This collaboration exemplifies Uber’s broader sustainability goals and its commitment to driving global change through innovative technology.
