Revel Launches Ridesharing Service, New York, NY 2021

The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) has approved Revel to operate a new ridehailing service. For the time being, Revel is deploying a fleet of 50 Tesla Model Ys that will serve customers below 42nd Street in Manhattan. All cars are electric vehicles (EVs). Revel is employing 150 drivers and fleet maintenance operators as part of this mobility program. When not in use, Revels’ cars will be charged at the company’s own EV charging hub in Brooklyn, known as the Superhub. The Superhub also serves as a location where the public can charge their own EVs.

This development is significant for two reasons – the first being that Revel directly employs their drivers, and the second being that its fleet is completely electric. Other transportation network companies (TNCs) like Lyft and Uber have their drivers serve as independent contractors. The gig-based economy in the ridesharing industry has caused controversy over labor practices, and TNCs have often maintained that they cannot afford the costs of directly employing drivers. On top of employing its drivers, Revel is using its new ridehailing program and its Superhub to promote the need for more EV infrastructure across New York City. Depending on the performance of this ridehailing program, Revel can inspire the broader adoption of new labor practices in the TNC industry and the expansion of electric charging infrastructure and EVs.

Last updated August 10, 2021