Driving Success: How a BMW i5 eDrive40 Transformed One Driver's Career

For many Uber and private drivers, choosing the right car is crucial to their success. For Emir Cosic, an Uber and professional driver, his decision to upgrade to a BMW i5 eDrive40 through Splend’s Flexi Own Plan has not only elevated his driving experience but also significantly increased his earnings and client satisfaction.

Here’s how the BMW i5 eDrive40 has become a game-changer for this professional driver.

An immediate client magnet

“The reception of the car has been amazing,” Emir shared enthusiastically. “Whoever's sat inside, they've just been amazed by the car itself, its comfort, and its handling.”

With its cutting-edge design and luxurious feel, the BMW i5 stands out. Clients frequently ask about buying one themselves after a ride, further highlighting the vehicle’s appeal.

Luxury at a low cost

The switch to an electric vehicle has also dramatically reduced costs, boosting profits. “I’m saving about $250 a week (in fuel), which works out to about a thousand bucks a month,” Emir explained. On top of that, the car also includes five years of free charging through ChargeFox, a benefit exclusive to Splend customers.

The i5’s efficiency has enabled Emir to take on longer shifts with ease. “I drive anywhere between 6 and 10 hours every day,” hey says, crediting the car’s comfort and advanced features for making their job much easier.

Impressive interiors

The i5 isn’t just functional—it’s luxurious. From heated rear seats to four-zone climate control, every detail enhances the passenger experience. Emir highlighted the sapphire crystal accents, calling the car “amazing as a package.”

Even in comparison to other high-end models like the Mercedes EQE and EQS, the BMW i5 shines. “There’s no space at the back [in the EQE], no headroom. This one has a lot more headroom.”

Passengers have noticed the difference. “One guy got in, sat at the back, and didn’t say anything for five minutes. Then he said, ‘I’m sorry, mate, but I was just speechless. I’ve never sat in a car like this.’”

Increased tips and corporate jobs

Private and corporate bookings are thriving. The upgrade has led to better tips and more lucrative opportunities.

“With the Mercedes, they’d just say, ‘Oh, nice car.’ But now, they’re tipping. I picked up a guy for a short drive, and he tipped 50 bucks just like that.”

The car’s premium feel has opened doors to high-end corporate work. From driving clients making multimillion-dollar deals to transporting executives, the BMW i5 is proving its value in premium services. There were things he’s heard from the driver’s seat of his i5, stories like the time when his client sealed at $450 million deal, “and then he makes another phone call and orders $30,000 worth of wine for his home.”

Bringing Premium back to Uber Premier

Emir has stayed ahead of his competition by switching to his all-new i5 as Uber announced changes to Uber Premier.

Uber announced in October 2024 changes to their vehicle eligibility requirements, removing some popular vehicles from Uber Premier. The changes were made to ensure ride categories meet customer expectations in this category - where riders expect true executive-level vehicles for the extra fares they pay.

The changes, which will be fully rolled out by 9 October 2025, when "grandfathered" vehicles (vehicles that were already on the platform when Uber made the changes) are removed, will lead to more opportunities for drivers in premium vehicles that still qualify for Uber Premier to earn more as supply will be tightened and customer expectations will be fulfilled.

Investing smart

For Emir, the BMW i5 eDrive40 is more than just a car—it’s a career investment. The Flexi Own Plan from Splend, which includes all ongoing ownership costs like servicing, maintenance, annual registration/CTP and rideshare insurance, made the transition seamless. “Insurance was between $4,000 and $5,000 a year before. Now, it’s included in the price. It was a no-brainer.”

Emir’s advice to others? Choose wisely and maintain your investment. “If I look after it (his car), it’s going to look after me.”

The BMW i5 eDrive40 isn’t just a car; it’s a tool for success in the rideshare and private driving industry. With unmatched luxury, efficiency, and earning potential, it’s no wonder clients—and even other drivers—can’t stop talking about it.

When asked what his favourite feature of his BMW i5 is, Emir says: “It's not only one thing. It's the whole thing, the whole car just as a package, it's amazing.”

Interested in transforming your rideshare career? Explore the Flexi Own Plan from Splend and see how the BMW i5 eDrive40 can drive your success.

About Splend

Splend makes car ownership easier, more affordable and more accessible for rideshare drivers by building everything they need to earn more and pay less into one affordable weekly payment. It’s smooth driving, with no surprises and the lowest total ownership cost you’ll find – which is how car ownership for rideshare drivers should be.

For more information about Splend, make an appointment and drop by to your local Splend Hub, email us, or say hello on 1800 775 363.