Electric Moped Startup Revel Set to Launch Uber Rival with Tesla Model Y Fleet

Company is able to build fleet using EV-exemption. TLC Chair states exemption wasn't meant to "flood an already saturated market"

Revel, the Brooklyn-based company known for its light blue electric mopeds, is trying to make a splash in the NYC ridehailing market with the launch of an all-EV Tesla Model Y fleet. The Company is reported to have built up a fleet of 50 bright blue Tesla Model Ys for its initial launch (expected to be in May) and has modified the car by removing the front passenger seat to create more legroom.

Unlike Uber and Lyft, Revel will own the fleet and maintain the cars (the announcement also coincides with Revel’s recent investment in developing a large EV charging hub in Williamsburg). In addition, the Company will hire drivers as employees who’ll have access to a range of benefits from healthcare to paid time off (Note: this is similar to how the Company classifies its workers who help maintain the company’s fleet of electric mopeds).

Regulatory Issues & TLC Plate Cap

While the idea and announcement are interesting, there maybe some issues. Given Revel’s initial focus will be on Manhattan …