Ubers comfort and exec eligibility changes 2026

Uber Comfort and Exec Eligibility Changes: Find Out How This Impacts Drivers

Uber has announced changes to Uber Comfort eligibility and Uber Exec - updating which vehicles qualify for these ride categories. The new rules come into effect from 1st August 2026 and are part of a wider review affecting drivers across the UK and Europe.

If you’re already driving with Splend, the short version is this: we’ve got you covered. Read on for what’s changing and what it means for London PCO drivers.

The short version

If your vehicle is with Splend today, nothing changes for you. Your Uber Comfort or Exec eligibility stays exactly as it is, for as long as the vehicle is with us, up to Uber’s standard age limit for that category.

There’s nothing you need to do. Your eligibility is protected automatically. No forms, no calls, no action.

Thinking about a car with Splend? You can still choose based on current Uber categories - the vehicles we offer keep their eligibility while they’re with us.

What Uber has actually changed to Uber Comfort cars

Uber periodically reviews which vehicles qualify for each ride category. As part of this Uber vehicle classification changes review, it’s updating the list of Uber Comfort eligible vehicles and Uber Exec cars, and tightening the Uber Comfort age limit (so vehicles stay Comfort-eligible until they reach Uber’s standard age limit for the category).

This is an Uber decision. Splend hasn’t been involved in choosing which individual models qualify. Our job has been to protect our drivers through the change, and that’s exactly what we’ve done.

What it means if you're a Splend driver

Whatever happens to a model’s general classification, every vehicle currently with Splend keeps its existing Uber category for the whole time it’s with us, right up to the standard Uber age limit.

That applies across all our plans. You can keep working with confidence - your category, your earnings and your day-to-day stay exactly the same.

If you’re considering a vehicle through Splend in the future, the same protection applies. Pick the car that suits how you drive, and it keeps its eligibility while it’s with you.

Which Uber Comfort and Exec cars 2026 does this update impact?

The category changes touch a number of EV and hybrid models across the market. For Splend drivers, the headline is the same regardless: if the car is with us, it stays eligible. A few specifics worth calling out:

Kia Niro EV: stays Uber Comfort eligible for the full life of the car, right up to its age limit. No change at any point.

Other Kia Niro models (non-EV): follow Uber’s standard eligibility rules.

Hyundai Kona Electric: covered under the same Splend protection as the rest of our fleet.

Mercedes EQE (Uber Exec) covered under our Exec protection while it’s with Splend.

Newer additions like the Jaecoo 7 eligible under the current rules and available to order now.

If you’re choosing a new vehicle and want one that sits comfortably within the updated rules, our team can point you to the right options.

Vehicle eligibility and regional details remain subject to final confirmation from Uber. If you’re ever unsure about your specific car, just ask us.

Frequently asked questions

Does this mean I can’t work on Uber any more?

No. These changes don’t stop you operating or earning on Uber. If you’re with Splend, there’s no change to your day-to-day at all, your vehicle’s eligibility stays the same.

Will I lose my Uber Comfort or Exec status?

No. If you’ve got an Uber Comfort eligible vehicle with Splend, your category is protected for as long as the car is with us, up to Uber’s standard age limit for that category.

I’m thinking about getting a car should this change my decision?

No. There’s no immediate impact on choosing a vehicle through Splend, whether on Flexi Own, Used Flexi Own or Rental. We’ll help you pick a car that meets Uber’s eligibility requirements.

What is the Uber Comfort age limit, and what happens when my vehicle reaches it?

Uber categories have always worked within age limits that part isn’t new. Your protection stays in place until the car reaches Uber’s standard category age limit. On most Flexi Own agreements your vehicle sits comfortably within that window for the length of the term, and when it ends you can choose to carry on or move to another eligible vehicle.

Why are some vehicles affected and others not?

It’s part of Uber’s periodic review, and the criteria are Uber’s own. Splend hasn’t decided which models qualify. Our focus has been making sure our drivers are looked after through the change.

Where can I get help or future updates?

We’ll keep this page updated as Uber shares more. If you’ve got a question about your current vehicle, or you’re thinking about rent to buy in London, our team is here - just get in touch.