Lyft launches fuel relief program for US rideshare drivers

Lyft, Inc. is launching a temporary relief program in the United States to assist drivers facing increased financial pressure from rising fuel costs. The 60-day initiative, which begins on March 27 and runs through May 26, provides cash-back incentives and fuel discounts for gig workers using the Lyft Direct debit card at eligible gas stations. The recent surge in gasoline prices, which have climbed more than 30% to hover around $4 per gallon, has been driven by energy supply disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran. Under the new program, top-performing drivers will receive an additional 2% cash back on fuel purchases, while mid-level drivers will receive an extra 1%. These incentives are added to existing rewards that range from 1% to 10% based on a driver's status. The company stated that the total savings, including contributions from partners, could reach as much as 94 cents per gallon for top-tier drivers based on a national average fuel price of $3.97. This move follows a similar announcement from the food delivery platform DoorDash, Inc., which introduced its own relief measures earlier this week to support workers through April 26.