Chinese electric vehicle major BYD and Opoli Technologies, the provider of a ridesharing app, are partnering as part of a green initiative in San Diego.
BYD is to deliver 50 electric vehicles of its e6 model to Opoli’s airport shuttle fleet as part of the drive.
The Chinese automaker will complete delivery of its all-electric crossover SUVs that are to supplement the natural gas-run vehicles in the Opoli fleet later this year.
According to a statement, BYD’s e6 would be ideal for drivers and fleet operators as it has a full range exceeding 180 miles. The vehicles will also be able to charge themselves at charging spaces Opoli has been allocated at San Diego International Airport.
US cities such as New York, San Francisco and Chicago already use battery-electric crossover SUV in taxi and municipal fleets.
Rattan Joea, the founder and CEO of Opoli Technologies says its collaboration with BYD will help it provide cost-effective solutions and a green alternative to users of its service in San Diego. “Riders would have fastest Wi-Fi available in the vehicles, along with other perks, to make the most of their commutes,” Joea added.
BYD e6 is currently part of fleets in Hong Kong, London, Singapore, Rotterdam, Bogota and Rio de Janiero. The vehicle boasts environmentally-friendly BYD Iron-Phosphate batteries, in-wheel hub motors and regenerative braking systems. The batteries are fire-safe and can be completely recycled, BYD says.
Opoli had launched its service in San Diego recently. It is the first rideshare service to be permitted at the San Diego International Airport.
Opoli works on a name-your-price model. It connects drivers and ride seekers who can then agree upon a fare. The entire fare goes into the account of the driver.
The Opoli app allows booking of rides in advance or on demand using the app, which has been made available for iOS and Android mobile platforms, according to a statement.
Ajith Kumar S