AdminIf you’ve been driving for Uber in London over the last few years, you’ll know that the "Clean Air Plan" has been a major part of the landscape. For seven years, Uber has been collecting a "Clean Air Fee" from every trip to help drivers switch to electric vehicles (EVs).
However, that era is officially coming to a close.
Uber has confirmed that its EV Assistance funding scheme is winding down, and the final deadline is approaching fast. If you have funds sitting in your account, you have until August 31, 2026, to meet the final requirements, or you risk losing that money forever.
At PCO GO, we believe in keeping you informed so you can protect your earnings and stay on the road. Here is everything you need to know about the end of the EV funding scheme and what you must do right now.
What Exactly is Changing?
For the past seven years, London drivers accumulated a pot of money known as EV Assistance (part of the Clean Air Plan). This was designed to bridge the price gap between petrol/hybrid cars and fully electric ones.
Earlier this year, Uber stopped adding new funds to these accounts. Now, they are moving to the final "payout phase." This means they are stopping the ongoing monthly assistance payments and replacing them with a one-off lump sum, but only for those who meet the strict criteria by the end of August.
The Critical Deadlines You Can't Miss
- August 31, 2026: The absolute final day to complete the "Performance Requirement."
- September 10, 2026: The date Uber will pay out the final lump sum to qualifying drivers.
Actionable Steps: How to Secure Your Payout
If you currently have an EV Assistance balance, you cannot simply wait for the check to arrive. You must take action to prove you are actively using an electric vehicle.
1. Complete the 150-Trip Requirement
To receive your final lump sum, you must complete 150 trips in a fully electric vehicle within any 8-week period ending on or before August 31, 2026.
If you are currently driving a hybrid or a petrol car, even if you have thousands of pounds in your Clean Air pot, you will forfeit those funds if you don't switch and complete those 150 trips in an EV by the deadline.
2. Check Your "EV Assistance" Balance
Don't guess how much you have. Log into your Uber Driver app, go to the "Earnings" tab, and look for the "Clean Air Plan" or "EV Assistance" section.
- If your balance is high: It might be worth fast-tracking your switch to an EV this month to "unlock" that cash.
- If you haven't switched yet: Be aware that the deadline to start a new claim was actually September 2025. If you didn't have an EV order locked in by then, you may already be ineligible for this specific pot of money.
3. Plan for the Lump Sum
On September 10, 2026, Uber will automatically pay out your remaining entitlement as a single payment. This marks the end of the scheme. After this date, no more Clean Air payments will be made to London drivers.
Expert Tip: If you're looking to enter the trade now, don't worry, while this specific scheme is ending, there are still various grants and London PCO driver earnings remain strong for those who choose efficient vehicles.
What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?
Uber has been very clear: any unused funds will be redirected.
If you do not complete the 150 trips or fail to switch to an EV in time, the money you "saved" through your fares over the last few years will not be paid to you. Instead, Uber plans to use those forfeited funds for "future green initiatives." To ensure that money stays in your pocket, you must meet the August 31 deadline.
Why Is Uber Doing This Now?
The goal of the 7-year plan was to get London drivers into EVs. With the 2026 TfL licensing rules and the expansion of charging infrastructure, Uber believes the "incentive" phase is over. Moving forward, being "Green" will simply be the standard requirement for driving in London.
This change is part of a broader trend of rising costs and shifting regulations. Just as TfL fee changes have impacted driver overheads, the end of this subsidy means drivers need to be more strategic about their vehicle choice and business planning.
How PCO GO Can Help You Navigate These Changes
At PCO GO, we don't just help you get your license; we help you build a career. Whether you are a new driver trying to understand the latest requirements or a veteran adjusting to the end of the Clean Air Plan, we provide the tools you need to succeed.
- Topographical Training: Before you can worry about EV funds, you need to pass your topographical test. Our computer-based training is the best in London.
- SERU Support: Don't let the new SERU assessments slow you down. We offer complete prep to get you through the TfL requirements quickly.
- Expert Advice: Our trainers are experienced in the London PHV industry and can offer guidance on which vehicles currently offer the best ROI.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I still use my Clean Air funds if I buy a hybrid?
No. The EV Assistance funds are strictly for fully electric vehicles (EVs). Hybrids no longer qualify for this specific payout.
What if I complete 140 trips by August 31?
Unfortunately, Uber's requirements are strict. If you do not hit the 150-trip mark within an 8-week window ending by August 31, you will likely lose access to the final lump sum.
Is there any other EV incentive available?
Yes, Uber still runs a separate UKI ZEV Incentive program, which is scheduled to run until late December 2026. However, this is separate from the legacy Clean Air Plan funds.
How do I get my PCO license to start driving an EV?
You need to pass your medical, DBS check, Topographical test, and SERU assessment. We can help you with all of these at our London training centre.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
The landscape for London PCO drivers is changing fast. Between the end of EV funding and new TfL regulations, it has never been more important to have a professional team in your corner.
Don't leave your career to chance. Whether you're aiming for that final Uber payout or just starting your application, PCO GO is here to hold your hand through the process.
Contact PCO GO Today to book your Topographical or SERU training and secure your future on London's roads.