Revel plans to launch an app-based car service in New York, debuting a fleet of 50 baby blue Tesla Model Y SUVs.

United States: Revel, a mobility start-up known for its ride-sharing fleets of electric scooters has received approval from New York’s Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) to launch an app-based car service in Manhattan from August 2, 2021. In Mid-June, the regulatory agency had blocked the inclusion of Revel’s Tesla Model Y taxis, citing a stoppage on the issuance of new-for-hire taxi licenses for the electric vehicles. However, TLC implemented an exemption for electric vehicles to help the transition to electrification and promote the use of sustainable transport, and hence approved 49 license plates for Revel’s fleet of 50 cars. Revel had modified the Model Y to make it a perfect vehicle, including a screen in the backseat, removing the front passenger seat for more leg space, and creating a unique zero-emission taxi experience for riders.

Currently, Revel operates more than 3,000 NIU electric scooters that can be rented by the minute. In an effort to increase electric vehicle adoption in NYC, the company recently unveiled its 25 EV charging stations in Brooklyn, which has become the largest universal charging depot in the USA. Besides, Revel is discussing its expansion plans with utility provider ConEd to identify new locations for charging points. Unlike its rivals, Uber, and Lyft, that hire contractors, Revel’s executives are planning to employ full-time drivers who would be receiving minimum wages and other benefits such as sick leave, paid time off, and other healthcare benefits.

Addressing the launch of Tesla taxis, Revel's CEO said, “The initial response from the public has been overwhelming, and we can’t wait to start serving New Yorkers who care as much about the City’s future as we do. With our all-electric rideshare fleet and fast-charging Superhub network, we’re investing in a zero-carbon transportation future. We’d like to thank Commissioner Jarmoszuk and the TLC for supporting New York City’s climate goals and working with us to get the city’s first all-electric, all-employee driven fleet on the road.”

On the inclusion of electric taxis to the yellow taxi-dominated NYC streets, TechSci Research commented, “With increasing concerns about climate change, people are developing an affinity towards clean transportation. While electric bus adoption in public transport urban fleet is rapidly growing, the introduction of electric taxis is a great move to accelerate the transition to electrification.”

According to TechSci report, “Global Small Electric Vehicle Market by Battery Type (Nickel-Metal-Hydride & Lithium Ion), By Vehicle Type (Passenger Car, Light Commercial Vehicle), By Technology (PHEV, BEV), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2025”, the global small electric vehicle market is anticipated to grow at a formidable CAGR by 2025, owing to rising inclination towards clean vehicles and increasing emphasis of government towards electrification.

According to another TechSci research report on “United States Electric Commercial Vehicle Market By Propulsion Type (BEV, HEV, PHEV and FCEV), By Range (0-150 Miles, 151-250 Miles, 251-500 Miles and 500 Miles & Above), By Component (Electric Motor, EV Battery and Hydrogen Fuel Cell), By Company and By Geography, Forecast & Opportunities, 2026”, the United States electric commercial vehicle market is projected to grow at double-digit CAGR in the next five years on account of increasing GHG emissions and incentives offered on the purchase of electric vehicle.