The European taxi app FREE NOW, owned by Lyft, has announced a strategic partnership with BYD, the Chinese manufacturer of electric vehicles, to expand its sustainable fleet in Poland. Since September 2025, 50 electric BYD cars have already joined the FREE NOW fleet in Warsaw, with plans to grow to several hundred vehicles within the next six months. These new cars will soon serve passengers in other major Polish cities as well.
BYD Models Join the FREE NOW Fleet
The partnership introduces several BYD models equipped with the company’s DM-i super hybrid technology, including the BYD Seal 5 and BYD Seal U, as well as the fully electric BYD Seal. These cars will be available across the Comfort, Premium, and Green service tiers in the FREE NOW app, allowing for a more tailored and environmentally friendly offer for passengers.
FREE NOW Modernizes and Electrifies Its Fleet
Poland’s market for electrified vehicles continues to grow rapidly, despite facing challenges related to infrastructure and costs. Against this backdrop, FREE NOW stands out for its progressive approach. According to the company’s “Sustainability Highlights 2024” report, 66% of all rides in Warsaw are already completed using hybrid taxis, up from 53% in 2024.
With the addition of BYD models, the number of low-emission vehicles in the fleet will continue to rise. The BYD SEAL line offers not only a modern design and comfort but also significant operational savings, making these cars attractive for both drivers and passengers.
FREE NOW can also boast one of the youngest taxi fleets in the country—its vehicles are less than nine years old on average, compared to the 16-year average age of private cars in Poland. The inclusion of brand-new 2025 BYD models will further reduce the fleet’s average age, enhancing passenger comfort and sustainability.
Strengthening the Comfort Segment with BYD
FREE NOW is expanding its Comfort service segment, which remains particularly popular among business travelers and FREE NOW for Business clients. Airport and train station transfers, as well as corporate rides, represent a large share of bookings—especially during early hours and off-peak times.
Passengers who choose the Comfort option expect spacious, high-quality cars with ample room for luggage—an area where BYD models fit perfectly. FREE NOW aims for BYD vehicles to represent at least 20% of its Comfort fleet in Poland by 2026, reflecting both a commitment to sustainability and a response to growing customer expectations for premium and eco-friendly travel experiences.
Bringing Innovation and Diversity to the Polish Taxi Market
By partnering with BYD, FREE NOW is not only investing in a modern and greener fleet, but also helping to diversify Poland’s taxi market, which in recent years has been dominated by just a few popular car models.
“We want our drivers to have access to the best technologies, and our passengers to travel comfortably and sustainably. The enthusiasm we’re already seeing—from both drivers and passengers—shows that we’re moving in the right direction,”
says Krzysztof Urban, Managing Director of FREE NOW by Lyft in Poland.
Incentives for Taxi Drivers: Referral and Leasing Programs
In cooperation with its fleet partners, FREE NOW and BYD have introduced a competitive car leasing offer for taxi drivers. The new 2025 models, featuring rich equipment and low operating costs, are available at prices comparable to standard, older taxi vehicles.
Additionally, the companies have launched a referral program where drivers act as BYD brand ambassadors, sharing information about the models with passengers. Drivers receive bonuses for successful referrals that lead to car purchases, while passengers gain access to exclusive vehicle offers.
Source: CEO.com.pl – Electric BYD Vehicles Join FREE NOW’s Polish Fleet
