Uber will soon permit passengers to reserve a ride to the airport using their service.
Uber revealed their newest service, Uber Shuttle, on Wednesday. This exciting feature allows users to book up to five seats in a shuttle from a central location, now at a lower cost compared to regular Uber rides. What's even more appealing is the absence of surge pricing, which typically arises when many people demand rides simultaneously.
Riders don't need to worry about plotting their schedules too far in advance, as they can book their shuttle spots up to one week ahead. Upon reserving these seats, they will receive a QR code ticket to hop on board. Uber intends to collaborate with local shuttle companies led by commercially licensed drivers to manage this new service. However, riders can still rate and tip them on the Uber app, as with any ordinary ride.
Uber has tested this shuttle feature in countries like India and provided it to corporate clients. The offering will soon reach US consumers this summer, focusing on event venues in specific cities, such as Chicago, Pittsburgh, Charlotte and Miami. Expect wider expansion in the upcoming months.
These updates were unveiled during Uber's annual product meeting on Wednesday, along with other features like an affordable Uber One membership program for students and Uber Eats users' capacity to order from Costco, even without a Costco membership.
Uber's refocus on affordability and group rides is no coincidence. With consumers tightening their purse strings due to higher prices on both standard goods and amenities, offering discounted options like Uber Shuttle is an effective way to attract more customers. The company's diversification beyond traditional ride-hailing has also been a crucial factor in its ongoing success as it manages to outpace its primary competitor, Lyft.
"Simply sharing – be it rides or groceries – makes your everyday experience a little less costly," said Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi at the presentation in New York City.
Uber introduced a feature designed for caregivers, enabling them to book rides, order groceries, and purchase medical supplies and other healthcare necessities for their loved ones. Depending on the circumstance, the person receiving care's medical benefits might cover these trips and orders; furthermore, a three-way chat connects the caregiver, rider, and driver. This functionality is an extension of a feature allowing health providers to book rides for patients.
Later this year, Uber will introduce a discounted booking option for shared rides, known as Uber Shared, a feature inspired by the growing number of people utilizing the app during commute hours. Initially available in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, and Atlanta, this service will gradually expand to more regions.
"Sharing is a core aspect of cities at our size in the future," remarked Camiel Irving, US and Canada's General Manager for Mobility Operations.
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The tech-savvy company, Uber, is also exploring business opportunities in affordable group rides with their new feature, Uber Shared, set to launch in major cities this year. Moreover, Uber is collaborating with local tech businesses, such as shuttle companies, to expand this service in the tech and business sector.
Source: edition.cnn.com
