Lyft’s new ‘Green Mode’ lets riders request an EV

Lyft is bringing a new “Green Mode” to its app which allows riders to specifically request an EV or hybrid vehicle.

The Green Mode option launches in Seattle today, and Lyft will introduce it to other parts of the country later. Lyft plans on introducing “thousands” of EVs onto its platform this year.

Screenshots of the app on Lyft’s blog show Green Mode as an additional option when requesting a ride. It doesn’t appear to differentiate between hybrids and EVs. Green Mode will likely give you a hybrid or EV, depending on what’s available.

While it’s unclear how many EVs or hybrids Lyft currently has in its fleet, COO Jon McNeill told Fast Company the share of EVs currently in the Seattle market is “relatively high.”

Lyft is also introducing EVs to its Express Drive program. Express Drive allows drivers to rent a car for the purpose of driving for Lyft. These drivers will now be able to rent EVs, and for the time being, unlimited charging will be included in the weekly rental rate. The Express Drive EV option will start in Seattle and Atlanta before rolling out to other regions.

Getting Greener

Green Mode is the next step in Lyft’s Green Cities initiative. Last year, the company announced all its rides were carbon neutral through carbon offset purchases. All EV charging for Lyft will be covered by 100 percent renewable electricity.

Lyft also launched its Lyft Scooters program last year. The electric scooter program is currently available in nine cities. In 2018, Lyft also hired a former Apple/Tesla executive to help build its e-bikes and e-scooters.