Lyft Impact Program

Written by Faith Foushee

Edited by Hannah Hillson

Last updated 03/27/2023

Mature woman looking at her cellphone as she enters her electric vehicle.
EMS-FORSTER-PRODUCTIONS/DigitalVision/Getty images

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Key Points

  • Lyft set a goal for 100% electric vehicles and zero emissions by 2030.
  • Drivers can experience higher earnings from Lyft by driving an EV.
  • Lyft Express Drive is a rental car program for drivers to use an EV without owning one.


The largest percentage of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. comes from
transportation. Ride-share companies like Lyft and Uber are prioritizing sustainability and encouraging drivers and riders to reduce emissions by choosing electric vehicles (EVs).

In 2020, Lyft announced its goal to reach zero emissions with a 100% EV fleet by 2030. Since the announcement, Lyft has taken steps towards its goal by introducing incentives for drivers and providing a program for easier EV access. Learn more about Lyft’s sustainability goals and EV plans.

What is Lyft’s Go Electric program?

Lyft’s path to zero emissions includes increasing EV accessibility, providing education for drivers and riders, and advocating for government incentives. 

Driving an EV for Lyft

EV drivers on the Lyft platform can save more money from lower maintenance costs, fuel savings and earn 40% more tips per ride. To ease the transition from a gas car to an EV, Lyft created an incentive bundle for drivers including:

  • Public charging discount. Drivers who link their Lyft and EVgo accounts receive a 45% discount at EVgo public charging stations. Create a free EVgo account to get started. 
  • Earn rewards. Drivers with a Lyft Direct debit card earn 1–7% cash back when used to pay at public charging stations. 
  • Home charger discount. Drivers get an exclusive deal for a Level 2 home charger from Wallbox. The Wallbox Pulsar Plus is one of the best EV chargers and is compatible with all EVs. 

EV drivers in California, approved by Lyft before the end of 2023, can participate in the EV Ride Challenge for bonus earnings. If you provide at least 50 rides a week, you’ll receive an extra $150. You can earn the bonus every week until you reach the $8,100 maximum or when the challenge ends on December 29, 2024. 

Riding in an EV with Lyft

Lyft launched Green Mode in Seattle and Portland, Oregon, which connects riders with a hybrid or electric vehicle. Lyft is working on expanding Green Mode or a similar option in other cities. The company is also working to build EV resources on its platform for rider education. 

Lyft Express Drive

Lyft partners with rental companies, like Hertz and Flexdrive, to provide an opportunity for those without cars or those who do not want to use their personal vehicles as Lyft drivers. Currently, drivers can choose from fuel-efficient, electric, and hybrid vehicles with 2018 or newer models. There are flexible pricing options and no long-term contracts to support earning money on your own schedule. Lyft’s goal in 2023 is to make EVs available at the same or lower price for rent as gas cars in their top cities.

Benefits of EVs

In addition to the opportunities offered by Lyft, there are many other reasons consumers choose EVs.

  • Financial incentives. Many U.S. states offer tax credits and other incentives to encourage EV adoption and reduce costs. 
  • Environmental benefits. Since EVs run on electricity, they do not have tailpipe emissions like gas cars. This means EVs are not directly polluting the air while on the road. In contrast, gasoline cars emit carbon dioxide, contributing to poor air quality and climate change. 
  • Affordable charging. Fueling your car with electricity is less expensive than fueling a car with gasoline. Charging at home and public charging stations results in 60% less spending on fuel.

As Lyft continues to make progress toward its sustainability goals, the company gives drivers and riders an EV experience to help reduce their carbon footprint. Learn more with the SaveOnEnergy guides to EVs and EV charging.

Frequently asked questions

  • Lyft’s EV incentives for drivers include higher earnings and charging discounts. Lyft partners with EVgo for a 45% discount at EVgo public charging stations. You can also save money on chargers for your home with Lyft’s Wallbox partnership.

  • Yes. Drivers in the U.S. can rent through Lyft’s Express Drive program. Lyft drivers must apply through the company website or on the mobile app.

  • If you’re interested in making money and creating your own schedule, consider driving for Lyft. Driving an EV instead of a gas vehicle for ride-share services is a good idea because there is less maintenance, like oil changes and brake work. Also, drivers can save money by charging with electricity rather than fueling with gas.

  • Charging stations are accessible throughout the U.S., especially in metropolitan areas. The U.S. Department of Energy offers a map to find charging stations near you.

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