If you're a ride-hailing driver or thinking about entering the sector, you've probably already heard about the transition to electric vehicles. But is it really worth swapping fuel for electricity? The short answer: yes, and increasingly so. In this article, we explain why. Electric mobility in ride-hailing services It's not a passing fad — it's the future of the profession.
The current scenario: Portugal and electric mobility
Portugal has invested heavily in electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The public network has thousands of charging points, including fast and ultra-fast chargers spread throughout the major metropolitan areas. For those who work in Lisbon, this means that charging their car between trips is becoming increasingly easy and quick.
The ride-hailing market, with growth exceeding 71% since 2017, is naturally at the forefront of this change. Platforms like Uber and Bolt already encourage the use of electric vehicles, and passengers are increasingly seeking sustainable transportation options.
Concrete advantages for the TVDE driver.
Lower operating costs
This is the biggest advantage for your wallet. The cost per kilometer of an electric vehicle is substantially lower than that of a gasoline or diesel car. In a sector where daily mileage is high, this difference translates into hundreds of euros saved per month. Less money spent on energy means more profit for you.
Less maintenance, fewer surprises.
An electric motor has far fewer moving parts than a combustion engine. There are no oils to change, timing belts to replace, or exhaust systems to repair. Brake wear is reduced thanks to regenerative braking. The result: fewer trips to the garage, fewer unexpected costs, and more time on the road generating revenue.
Superior comfort for you and your passenger.
Anyone who has driven an electric car knows: the silence is a completely different experience. Without engine vibration or combustion noise, driving becomes more relaxing—especially on long journeys. For passengers, this translates to a more comfortable ride and a higher rating, which directly affects your earnings on the platforms.
Protection against fuel volatility
The price of gasoline and diesel fluctuates constantly. With an electric vehicle, energy costs are more predictable and stable. If you charge during off-peak hours or at stations with competitive rates, financial predictability is even greater.
And what about the worries? Let's demystify them.
Autonomy
Current electric vehicles offer ranges that easily cover a full day of TVDE (Transport Vehicle with Driver) work in Lisbon. Models such as the Tesla Model 3, the BYD Atto 3, or the Kia EV3 — all available in the AKM fleet — have real-world ranges that allow them to operate all day on a single charge, or with a quick stop during a break.
Loading time
At a fast charging station, you can recharge the 80% battery in 30 to 40 minutes. With ultrafast chargers, that time is reduced even further. Use the break to eat or rest — when you return, the car will be ready.
Job availability
Lisbon and its metropolitan area have one of the highest concentrations of charging stations in the country. With apps like Miio or Mobi.E, you can find and reserve charging stations in real time. The infrastructure continues to grow.
AKM's electric fleet
At AKM Fleet Care Solutions, the electric transition is a strategic priority. Our fleet already includes 100% electric vehicles such as the Tesla Model 3, BYD Atto 3 e Kia EV3, all prepared for TVDE operation in Lisbon.
When you rent an electric car with AKM, everything is included: full insurance, maintenance, and ongoing support. You don't need to invest in your own vehicle or worry about depreciation — focus on driving and we'll take care of the rest.
For the planet and for the city.
Every trip in an electric ride-hailing vehicle is a trip with zero local emissions. Less CO₂, fewer particles, less noise. In a city like Lisbon, where air quality and congestion are real challenges, every driver who makes the electric transition contributes directly to a more livable city.
AKM believes that sustainability and profitability are not opposites — on the contrary, they go hand in hand. An electric car costs less to operate, provides more comfort, and contributes to a better future.
Ready to try it?
If you want to drive an electric vehicle without initial investment, with insurance included and full support, AKM has the solution. Join our fleet and discover firsthand the advantages of electric mobility in ride-hailing services.
Phone / WhatsApp: +351 932 751 425
E-mail: akm@grupo-sk.com