European partnership agreed by Toyota and Uber

A new partnership has been agreed between Toyota and Uber, giving the ride hailing company’s drivers access to preferential deals on Toyota and Lexus cars.

The deal signed by Toyota Motor Europe covers both new and approved used vehicles, and is said to follow a UK partnership which was relaunched in 2024 and has seen more than 3,500 vehicles registered, more than 3,000 of which have been EVs.

Toyota says the new European partnership will see it working with Uber to create a ‘multi-pathway vehicle offer’, including EVs and hybrids, adapted to local market and infrastructure conditions.

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The partnership also includes flexible finance and leasing options, connected insurance said to be designed for the needs of professional mobility drivers, and expanded access to approved used vehicles via the Kinto mobility brand.

The rollout begins this month in 10 European countries, including the UK, with a phased expansion to the rest of Europe planned subsequently.

Partnership aims to support lower-emission fleet transition

The partnership is said to tie in with accelerated efforts by European cities and the automotive industry to reduce emissions, and support drivers facing increasing operating costs and changing regulatory requirements.

Leonardo Carluccio, vice president of sales at Toyota Motor Europe, said: “Professional drivers need electrified vehicles that work for them economically as well as operationally.

“Through this partnership with Uber, we are improving access to vehicles, financing and mobility services that drivers can use immediately, while supporting the gradual shift towards lower-emission fleets across European cities.

“This reflects Toyota’s belief that the transition to lower-emission mobility should be inclusive and accessible to all.”

Raoul Philips Sr, director of central operations at Uber, said: “Partnering with Toyota allows us to offer an integrated solution that addresses vehicle ownership, financing, and maintenance.

“By lowering ownership obstacles, we are accelerating electrification while supporting drivers’ livelihoods in a changing world.”