Can You Really Make Money With Uber Right Now?
Vinnykuzz
29 May 2025
Notes on Electric Car Rideshare Experience
Overview
The video discusses the recent developments in ridesharing, particularly concerning the Tesla Model Y's availability on Lyft. It also shares the personal experiences of the speaker as a rideshare driver, including earnings, challenges faced during the weekend, and insights into the electric vehicle's performance in varying weather conditions.
1. Lyft and Tesla Model Y Update
- Issue with Lyft:
- Mistakenly attempted to remove the Tesla Model Y from Lyft Black in New York City and Chicago.
- Communication with Lyft CEO David Richer led to a correction; Model Y remains available in other cities for existing drivers.
- Grandfathering Policy:
- Existing drivers with the Model Y can continue using it on the platform, but new drivers cannot add the Model Y.
2. Personal Rideshare Experience
Earnings Overview
- Weekly Earnings:
- Previous week: $1,100 in 48 hours.
- Current week: Less than $200 due to fewer working hours.
- Daily Earnings Goals:
- Friday: $150
- Saturday: $200
- Sunday: $100
- Total Weekend Earnings:
- Friday: $180
- Saturday: $100
- Sunday: $131.40 (including a $27 tip from a significant ride).
Challenges Faced
- Weather Conditions:
- Experienced a major rainstorm affecting ride requests.
- Noted the "bipolar" weather in South Florida, impacting rideshare demand.
- Ride Requests:
- Difficulty in receiving ride requests during peak times.
- Mentioned a frustrating experience with a ride request that required driving to a surge area without compensation.
3. Electric Vehicle Insights
- Electricity Usage:
- Increased electricity consumption during hot weather due to air conditioning.
- Consideration of whether to drive during the day when demand is low, as it may lead to higher electricity costs.
4. Weekend Summary
- Overall Performance:
- Despite a slow start, managed to meet the weekend earnings goal of $450.
- Noted the unpredictability of rideshare earnings and the importance of being in the right location.
- Future Considerations:
- Anticipation of increased competition during summer as more drivers enter the market.
- Plans to adjust strategies by potentially accepting lower-tier rides (X rides) to maintain earnings.
5. Lyft's Compensation for Drivers
- Bonus for Drivers:
- Some drivers received a $50 bonus from Lyft as compensation for the Model Y issue.
- Speaker has not received the bonus but acknowledges it as a goodwill gesture.
Key Statistics
| Day | Earnings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Friday | $180 | Good start to the weekend |
| Saturday | $100 | Slow day, despite tips |
| Sunday | $131.40 | Included a significant ride |
| Total | $411.40 | Goal of $450 for the weekend |
Conclusion
The video highlights the dynamic nature of rideshare driving, particularly with electric vehicles like the Tesla Model Y. It emphasizes the importance of adaptability in response to market conditions, weather, and platform changes, while also reflecting on personal earnings and experiences as a driver. The speaker remains optimistic about future opportunities despite recent challenges.