Uber Japan recently announced that it will purchase 100 Tesla Model Y units for the new program it aims to launch in Tokyo. As per the press release, the program will involve the country’s leading taxi operator Hinomaru Kotsu for the incorporation of the all-electric SUV models into Uber Premium’s service by the end of 2024.
Uber Premium in Tokyo
As mentioned, the Tesla Model Y units will join the Uber Premium exclusive fleet.
Uber aims to launch the first batch of 30 units in November, with plans to deploy these all-electric SUVs at Nippon Kotsu’s business sites in Setagaya Ward, Edogawa Ward, and Adachi Ward. It will also reportedly provide services to Hinomaru Motors’ wireless group affiliate firms following the initial rollout.
Meanwhile, the remaining 70 Tesla Model Y units will follow by the end of 2024.
“I am very pleased to be able to work with Hinomaru Kotsu and Tesla Japan to promote zero-emission vehicles. Uber Premium is a service that allows you to easily and reasonably call a luxury vehicle using the Uber app. in the deployment area. We expect that the demand for Uber Premium will increase further with the introduction of the Tesla Model Y, which is popular as a luxury vehicle, as a dedicated vehicle.”
Shiro Yamanaka, Uber Japan Executive
Notably, this new program from Uber will aid Tesla in achieving its mission to widen the reach of its luxury EVs on a global scale. It is also worth mentioning that Uber has been using Tesla EVs for its ride-hailing service in North America and Europe.
“We are also focusing on the taxi and hire business, mainly in North America, and we are very pleased to be able to realize an initiative of 100 units in Japan as well. We believe that business owners will also benefit greatly from this, and We will continue to have everyone experience the appeal of Tesla and expand it widely throughout Japan, regardless of whether it is a corporation or an individual.”
Ryokusai Inoue, Tesla Japan Manager
See Also:
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Tesla faced major challenges entering the Japanese electric vehicle market as the country highly favors local brands. The domestic market also has a high preference for hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles over battery electric ones.
That said, Uber’s deployment of 100 Tesla Model Y can potentially aid the company in promoting its EV offerings in the country.
