Revel Exits NYC Rideshare Market to Drive EV Charging Infrastructure Expansion

Revel, a significant presence in the New York City rideshare market, has decided to cease its operations as of Monday, choosing instead to concentrate on developing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Having competed vigorously with industry leaders such as Uber and Lyft, Revel’s departure from ridesharing signals its strategic redirection towards bolstering EV support in major urban areas. Frank Reig, Revel’s co-founder and CEO, emphasized that the company would focus on constructing fast-charging networks to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles, particularly in cities that require expanded infrastructure to sustain this movement.

Revel's rideshare operations in New York City, which will terminate entirely by August 11, represented a pioneering all-electric service, offering many riders their first experience with EVs. This contributed significantly to the growth of EV adoption within the city’s rideshare segment, helping widen consumer exposure to electric alternatives. Revel started with 68 rental mopeds in Bushwick in 2018 and quickly grew to encompass a substantial presence, including operations in San Francisco.

Currently, Revel operates 100 EV chargers spread across five stations in New York City, with additional facilities being developed. The company has ambitious plans to expand its charging network, aiming for 2,000 operational stalls by 2030 across various markets. This strategic pivot follows Revel’s decision in June 2024 to shift its staffing model from employed drivers to independent contractors, responding to changing demand dynamics. Moreover, in April 2025, Revel ended its contractual relationship with Hertz rental cars, further signaling its transition from traditional rideshare services.

Industry shifts and operational challenges have influenced Revel’s business trajectory significantly, including safety concerns and declining demand for rental mopeds, which led to the discontinuation of that service in 2023. Additionally, there are speculations that Revel is considering selling its over 100 New York State Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) corporate license plates, which, according to reports, could be transferred upon sale.

Revel's strategic shift comes amid a rapidly evolving landscape in transport, where companies increasingly seek diversification and technological integration in response to market and regulatory changes. Analysts suggest that redirecting resources towards EV infrastructure might allow Revel to capitalize on growth areas that could offer sustainable returns. Consequently, Revel’s exit may offer advantages to remaining competitors like Uber and Lyft, potentially increasing their market share in New York.

While Revel's withdrawal from New York City’s rideshare scene represents a significant change, its commitment to EV infrastructure development underscores a forward-thinking approach. Observers will be watching closely to see how Revel leverages its experience and resources to innovate within this new paradigm, impacting both the rideshare industry and the broader transportation sector. As Revel adapts, its moves might showcase effective repositioning strategies in response to shifting consumer demands and environmental priorities.