As of today, rideshare operations featuring the recognizable blue EV fleet have ended in New York City, with the company shifting its focus to expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The move marks a transition away from the competitive rideshare market toward improving charging access in major urban areas.
Revel co-founder and CEO Frank Reig elucidated the company's strategic shift, stating, "We have made the difficult decision that the best way we can keep the EV transition moving forward is by ending our rideshare service and focusing on building the fast charging infrastructure our biggest cities need to keep going electric," according to a statement obtained by amNewYork. He also reflected on the influence Revel had, "For many, their first experience in an EV was in one of our bright blue cars. That spark helped power the electrification of rideshare throughout New York City."
Highlighting its ongoing initiatives, Revel currently operates 100 chargers across five stations in New York, with expansion efforts underway. The company has announced plans to build a network of 2,000 charging stalls by 2030 across multiple markets. This shift in focus toward infrastructure reflects broader changes within the industry, including Revel’s move last year from using employee drivers to partnering with independent contractors, as outlined by PIX11.
Reports surrounding Revel’s strategic exit include the possibility of selling its more than 100 New York State TLC license plates. While licenses assigned to individuals are non-transferable, those held by corporate entities can be sold, a move that could signal broader plans for the company’s direction, as reported by amNewYork. This development follows Revel’s separation from Hertz rental cars in April, as noted by Automarketplace.
Launched in 2018 as a small moped rental service based in Bushwick, Revel quickly expanded to cities like San Francisco, at one point providing approximately 600,000 rides each month. However, factors such as decreased ridership and safety issues led to the discontinuation of the moped program in 2023. The company's recent strategic shift coincides with potential changes in New York City’s rideshare environment, including Waymo’s application to begin testing self-driving vehicles in the city, PIX11 reported.
