What Car To Use For Uber In London – All Uber Vehicle List And Requirements for 2024

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The Most Popular Cars To Use For Uber In London – Vehicle List:

Driving for Uber in London continues to be a popular gig, and vehicle preferences have evolved with advancements in automotive technology and growing environmental concerns. Here’s an updated list of the most popular cars currently used for Uber in London in 2024, reflecting the latest efficiency, comfort, and sustainability trends.

1. Toyota Prius (2020 and newer) – 50-60 MPG*

Prius 2020

Still reigning supreme, the Toyota Prius remains the most popular Uber vehicle in London due to its excellent fuel efficiency and reliability. The newer models offer better mileage, around 50-60 MPG, and enhanced hybrid technology. The 2020+ models also feature advanced safety features and a more refined driving experience, making them a favorite among Uber drivers.

2. Tesla Model 3 (Standard Range Plus) – 240-260 miles per charge*

Tesla Model 3

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more accessible, the Tesla Model 3 has surged in popularity among Uber drivers. The Model 3 provides a range of 240-260 miles per charge, making it suitable for a full day of driving. Charging infrastructure in London has improved significantly, reducing downtime. The Model 3 is not only eco-friendly but also offers a premium experience for passengers.

3. Hyundai Ioniq 5 – 250-300 miles per charge*

Hyundai IONIQ 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5, with its impressive range and spacious interior, has become a top choice for Uber drivers. Its futuristic design and fast-charging capabilities make it practical for long shifts. The Ioniq 5’s eco-friendly credentials and the comfort it offers passengers have made it a strong contender in the electric vehicle segment for ride-sharing.

4. Skoda Octavia (2021 and newer) – 40-50 MPG*

Scoda Octavia 2021

The Skoda Octavia remains a reliable and affordable option for Uber drivers. The newer models, particularly the hybrid variants, offer improved fuel efficiency, getting around 40-50 MPG. The Octavia’s spacious interior and large boot make it perfect for transporting passengers with luggage.

4. Toyota Corolla Hybrid (2019 and newer) – 55-65 MPG*

Toyota Corolla 2019 Hybrid

 

The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is gaining popularity for its remarkable fuel efficiency and low running costs. It offers around 55-65 MPG and provides a comfortable ride for both drivers and passengers. Its compact size makes it ideal for navigating London’s busy streets while still offering adequate space.

6. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2018 and newer) – 30-40 MPG*

Mercedes Benz E-Class V213 2019

For those looking to provide a more luxurious ride, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is an excellent choice. While not as fuel-efficient as hybrid or electric options, it offers comfort, style, and a premium passenger experience. The E-Class is particularly favored for Uber’s premium service options and longer trips.

7. Kia Niro EV – 240-280 miles per charge*

KIA Niro EV 2021

The Kia Niro EV has become a popular choice due to its balance of range, affordability, and comfort. Offering 240-280 miles per charge, it’s a reliable option for those who want to go electric without breaking the bank. Its compact SUV design provides ample space while being easy to maneuver in city traffic.

8. Volkswagen ID.3 – 250-350 miles per charge*

2020 Volkswagen ID.3

The Volkswagen ID.3 is another excellent electric vehicle option for Uber drivers. With a range of 250-350 miles per charge, it offers great flexibility for long working hours. The ID.3’s modern design, combined with advanced technology and spacious interior, makes it a great choice for urban ride-sharing.

10. Ford Focus (2019 and newer) – 40-50 MPG*

Ford Focus 2020

The Ford Focus remains a solid choice for Uber drivers due to its balance of cost, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The newer models offer around 40-50 MPG, and the vehicle’s compact size and agile handling make it ideal for urban driving. It’s also equipped with modern tech features that enhance the driving experience.

These updated choices reflect the growing trend among Uber drivers in London towards more eco-friendly and efficient vehicles. With an increasing emphasis on sustainability, many drivers are shifting towards hybrid and electric options to reduce running costs and environmental impact while providing comfortable and reliable service to passengers.

List Of Cars Accepted For Uber X

Most newer cars qualify to drive with UberX. It’s one of the most popular options for riders.

Requirements:

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • Model year in line with local licensing authority requirements
  • 4-door vehicle
  • Good condition with no cosmetic damage
  • No commercial branding
  • Licensed to carry a minimum of 4 passengers

London TFL Vehicle licence criteria

In order to apply for a licence, the vehicle must meet the following criteria:

  1. All new vehicles or vehicles new to licensing must as a minimum, meet the Euro 6 standards for emissions at the time of licensing – as of 1 January 2018, all taxis presented for licensing for the first time must be zero emissions capable
  2. Vehicles already licensed by us must be less than 12 years old at the time of licensing
  3. The vehicle must meet the design standards set out in our conditions of fitness document. Please read “Taxi – conditions of fitness”, which can be found on our Legislation and policy page
  4. All taxis must have a taxi meter. For further details, please see our document “Taximeter specification” on our Legislation and policy page
  5. All taxis must have the facility to accept card and contactless payments via an approved fixed card payment device installed in the passenger compartment, which must be capable of producing a printed receipt on demand.

Cars Accepted For Uber Green

Offer rides in 100% electric vehicles. We’ve set ourselves the bold aim of making every car on the Uber app in London fully electric by 2025.

Requirements:

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • Fully electric vehicles
  • Hybrids are not included
  • Seats at least 4 passengers in addition to the driver

Cars Accepted For Uber Comfort

Comfort was designed to maximise possibilities on the Uber platform for mid-sized vehicles with more legroom.

Requirements:

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • Vehicle model maximum of 7 years old for London and 10 years old for RoUK. This policy will be implemented on a rolling basis. Eg. in 2024, you need to have a vehicle which is manufactured in 2017 or later for London and 2014 or later for RoUK
  • All vehicles eligible for Exec are also eligible for Comfort.

Cars Accepted For UberXL

Seat more passengers—and earn higher fares—with your high-capacity vehicle.

Requirements:

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • Must seat at least 6 riders in addition to the driver
  • Model year in line with local licensing authority requirements
  • 4-door vehicle
  • Good condition with no cosmetic damage
  • No commercial branding

Cars Accepted For Uber Exec

Offering premium rides with experienced drivers.

Requirements:

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • Drivers who have completed over 1000 trips
  • Maintained a rating of 4.9 or above
  • Model year in line with local licensing authority requirements
  • 4-door vehicle
  • Good condition with no cosmetic damage
  • No commercial branding
  • Exec vehicles must be manufactured in 2016 or later in London, though specific year requirements vary across other UK cities.
  • In 2023, vehicles will need to be registered in 2017 or later to be eligible for Exec in London.

Cars Accepted For Uber Lux

The ultimate luxury vehicles and experience.

Requirements:

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • Drivers who have completed over 1000 trips
  • Maintained a rating of 4.9 or above
  • Model year in line with local licensing authority requirements
  • 4-door vehicle
  • Good condition with no cosmetic damage
  • No commercial branding
  • Lux vehicles must seat at least 4 riders in addition to the driver.
  • From 1 July, 2022, all Lux vehicles must be manufactured in 2016 or later. In 2023, vehicles will need to be registered in 2017 or later to be eligible for Lux.

Cars Accepted For Uber Assist

This option is designed for riders living with disability, older adults, or those who need an extra hand when getting from place to place. Assist vehicles can accommodate folding wheelchairs, walkers, and collapsible scooters.

Assist vehicles must:

  • Be able to accommodate folding wheelchairs, walkers, collapsible scooters, and other assistive devices
  • Model year in line with local licensing authority requirements
  • 4-door vehicle
  • Good condition with no cosmetic damage
  • No commercial branding
  • All vehicles must be licensed to carry a minimum of 4 passengers

In order for drivers to be eligible for Assist, they must have

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • A 4.7 minimum rating; and
  • Have completed over 500 trips (London) or 150 trips (Rest of UK)
  • If you meet the criteria set out above, all you need to do is complete the online disability equality training. Once you have successfully completed this, you should start receiving Uber Assist trip requests within 48 hours. You can access the training via this link.

Cars Accepted For Uber Access

Wheelchair-accessible vehicles that allow wheelchair users to remain in their wheelchairs as they ride.

Requirements:

  • PHVL Licence from an accepted council
  • Vehicles be able to accommodate non-foldable wheelchairs
  • You can rent a WAV if you do not have one here
  • If you already own a WAV, you will need to visit your local GL for a vehicle inspection.
  • Equipped with a ramp or lift
  • Must complete a certified accessibility training course

In order for drivers to be eligible for Access, they must have

  • A 4.7 minimum rating; and
  • Have completed over 500 trips (London) or 150 trips (Rest of UK)

If you meet the criteria set out above, all you need to do is complete the online disability equality training. Once you complete this, you should receive Uber Assist trip requests within 48 hours. You can access the training via this link.

Full List Of Vehicles Accepted For Uber in London, except for UberX, which we already explained it’s quite relaxed nowadays:

  • Alfa Romeo
  • Audi
  • BMW
  • BYD
  • Bentley
  • Chevrolet
  • Chrysler
  • Citroen
  • Cupra
  • DS
  • Daihatsu
  • Fiat
  • Ford
  • Genesis
  • Honda
  • Hyundai
  • Infiniti
  • Jaguar
  • Kia
  • Land Rover
  • Lexus
  • MG
  • Maxus
  • Mazda
  • Mercedes-Benz
  • Mitsubishi
  • Nio
  • Nissan
  • Opel
  • Peugeot
  • Polestar
  • Porsche
  • Renault
  • Rolls-Royce
  • Seat
  • Skoda
  • Ssangyong
  • Suzuki
  • Tesla
  • Toyota
  • Vauxhall
  • Volkswagen
  • Volvo
  • XPENG

Renting Versus Buying Your Uber PCO Car

That’s a tricky one. The economics of Uber driving are such that if you do not outright have your own 2009 or newer car, you have to work 50 to 60 hours or more to make any decent money. I am sure many people are thinking about driving for Uber part-time to generate some additional income, but that should only be the case if you already have the car and just need to add insurance.

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If you look at most offers on Gumtree or Uber’s approved PCO car rental providers, you will notice that it is hard to get a decent car for less than £200-£250 a week, even some offer excludes insurance at that price range. That is £10,400-£13,000 a year thinking long term. You can find a used Prius on Gumtree or AutoTrader for less than that, let alone Skodas or Fords.
I will cover my financial experience with Uber on the linked page, but if you want to try Uber and see if it works for hiring a car short term is a viable option. I wouldn’t recommend hiring for more than a few months till you have enough money to cover a used beater from Gumtree or a down payment on a finance deal for a Prius or Insight.

Private Hire Car Maintenance

Driving a cab in a busy city like London is a pretty heavy load on the car, so regular maintenance is essential. Tyres, brake pads and disks, oil changes and different other bits will have to be serviced much more frequently than on a normal car or a Sunday driver. Brakes are usually easy to repair yourselves if you are handy enough, as might be oil changes depending on whether you can service your car at your home or not. Tyres and windscreen chips are a different matter so you have to find a mechanic you can trust not to rip you off on maintenance for your vehicle. You have to take care of the MOT as well, which is due every six months for private hire and taxis rather than the year interval for standard vehicles.

If you hire a car from a reputable provider, all this will be taken care of, and all you have to do is just drive. Careful, because you have to return the car in the same condition as you received otherwise you will be charged for every little problem that the car developed under your care, and there will be some dings and chips from driving in a city like London, the inescapable truth.