Ride-hailing firm Grab will be rolling out 200 new fast-charging electric vehicles (EVs), tapping on SP Group's (SP) pervasive fast-charging network.
The aim is to deliver greater cost savings for driver-partners, the companies said in a joint press release on Aug 23, 2018.
The new fleet will be progressively rolled out in Singapore from early 2019.
Driver-partners on this new model will enjoy preferential EV charging rates from SP, at all their charging stations islandwide. They can expect to earn up to 25 percent more in daily income compared to those on a regular petrol vehicle, and up to 20 percent more daily income compared to a hybrid vehicle.
In June, SP unveiled plans to build Singapore’s largest and fastest public EV charging network. The company has committed to build 500 publicly accessible charging points by 2020, comprising both DC (direct current) and AC (alternating current) chargers.
These charging points will be installed in convenient locations – many within close-proximity to coffee-shops and food outlets. This will allow Grab driver-partners to match their charging time with meal and driving breaks.
"We have heard from our driver-partners that a faster charge time and longer EV driving range are important considerations for them when making the switch to EVs," said Lim Kell Jay, Head of Grab Singapore. "
We have taken their feedback on board and have negotiated the best deals to bring them concrete savings and the best vehicle model to cater to their driving needs."
Mr Goh Chee Kiong, Head, Strategic Development, SP Group, added, “We are pleased to enable the success of Grab’s electrification efforts through our plans to launch Singapore’s largest public electric vehicle charging network. The pervasive fast-charging network will provide Grab’s EV drivers with convenience and speed in charging their vehicles, while helping them to achieve energy and cost savings."
Grab driver-partner Jason Ryan welcomed the news, saying, “This new partnership will give me access to more charging locations island-wide, allowing me flexibility to plan my day. I am also excited to try out the new fast-charging EVs which will let me maximise my time on the road and increase my overall income.”
Specific details on pricing of charging facilities and EV models will be disclosed towards the end of the year when SP Group is expected to set up the first 30 charging points.