UK-headquartered commercial EV manufacturer Arrival has revealed the first finished prototype of the Arrival Car, which has been designed specifically for the ride-hailing industry.
Developed alongside drivers from Uber, the car is expected to cover on average up to 50,000km (31,000 miles) a year, versus 12,000km (7500 miles) for a typical vehicle. Arrival added it has created a vehicle that has exceptional visibility and comfort – with leg room twice as large as that of an average car of the same length.
Jamie Heywood, regional general manager for Northern and Eastern Europe at Uber, said: “The first reveal of the Arrival Car is an exciting moment for Uber drivers, who are switching to electric vehicles at a much faster rate than the mass market.
“Uber drivers have been working with Arrival to provide feedback on the design of the first purpose built, fully electric car for the ride-hailing industry. This exciting new vehicle will support our commitment for all cars on the app in London to be fully electric by 2025, helping to drive a green recovery and clean up urban transport.”
According to the manufacturer, the Arrival Car prioritises cost, uptime, driver comfort, safety, and convenience. It has been designed from the ground-up and vertically integrated using the company’s new method of design and production using microfactories.
The company will now commence testing of the car and will incorporate the feedback into the next design phase.
Tom Elvidge, EVP vehicle platforms at Arrival, added: “Electrifying ride-hailing will play a crucial role in reducing the emissions of vehicles in cities globally, providing a sustainable, clean multi-modal transportation system for communities. We are keen on supporting drivers with this transition by developing the best possible product for ride hailing that elevates the experience for both them and their passengers, making urban air clean in the process.”
