Revel Ends Ride-Hailing, Shifts Focus to EV Charging

Revel Discontinues Ride-Hailing in New York City

Revel has ceased operations of its ride-hailing service within New York City, marking a significant shift for the company. Initially established in 2019 as an electric scooter rental provider, Revel is now altering its business strategy.

The company will concentrate its efforts on expanding its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Currently, Revel operates five charging stations in New York and an additional station in San Francisco.

Service Closure Announcement

Users accessing the Revel application on Monday encountered a message expressing gratitude for their patronage over the past four years. The message also confirmed the permanent closure of the rideshare service.

A similar announcement was posted on Revel’s official website, stating the company’s commitment to growing its fast-charging business. Further expansion to additional cities is planned in the near future.

Strategic Shift to EV Charging

“A deliberate decision has been made to prioritize the advancement of EV adoption by discontinuing the rideshare service,” explained Frank Reig, co-founder and CEO of Revel, in a statement to TechCrunch. “Our focus will now be on developing the fast-charging infrastructure that major cities require for continued electrification.”

According to Bloomberg News, Revel intends to divest its fleet of distinctive blue Tesla and Kia vehicles. The company will also be selling the 165 for-hire vehicle license plates associated with these vehicles.

Reig indicated to Bloomberg that each license plate could fetch a price ranging from $20,000 to $25,000.

Charging Infrastructure Growth

Revel initially introduced its charging stations in 2021, coinciding with the launch of its ride-hail fleet. However, the adoption rate for the charging business was initially slow.

In early 2023, the network’s overall utilization stood at 21%, with 19% of that usage attributed to Revel’s own ride-hail vehicles.

By early 2025, the utilization rate had significantly increased to 45%, with Revel’s fleet accounting for only 12% of the charging activity.

A key partnership with Uber in 2024, directing numerous drivers to Revel’s chargers, contributed to this substantial growth.

Revel anticipates operating “over 400” charging stalls across Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco by the close of 2026.

Reader Feedback Request

We are continually striving to improve, and your insights are valuable! Please consider completing this survey to share your feedback on TechCrunch’s coverage and events. Your participation could also qualify you for a prize!