As striking cabbies bring London to its knees over the Uber fiasco, the app maker has announced that it is moving to accommodate black cabs with new offering UberTAXI.
Piccadilly Circus is at a standstill, Charing Cross road and Trafalgar Square are also gridlocked. But meanwhile, Uber are basking in the commotion.
A statement on the company’s website says: “We recognise the unique heritage and value of traditional black cabs when it comes to getting around. UberTAXI is another way of using technology to offer more choice, making life simpler and keeping London moving.”
You have to wonder whether Uber has allowed cabbies rage to mount, and then today – a day of mass protest over the legality of the existing app – has pounced upon the opportunity to launch the new service to maximum exposure.
The statement continues: “Londoners are savvy decision makers; they have different needs in different situations. Launching UberTAXI today delivers another option for consumers and more choice for London drivers too.”
“UberTAXI – like all services on the Uber platform – is completely cashless, enabling users to book and pay directly through the Uber app. Customers simply select the TAXI option in-app, take a ride, and their card will be charged automatically. UberTAXI can seat up to five passengers, is wheelchair accessible and can more easily take oversized luggage.”
How will it work?
· UberTAXI Pricing will follow the same fare rates set out by transport for London
· There will be no booking fees or additional charges to clients
· Clients can set their default tipping rate for TAXI at riders.uber.com
· We’ll charge a flat commission of just 5%
· The meter will start at the time that the taxi arrives at pick up
· £7 cancellation fee, just like on EXEC
· TAXI will offer a 5 min waiting time
· Riders must be over 18 years of age to use the Uber app
· We expect initial availability to be limited due to high demand.
#londonat a total standstill around Parliament Square, black cabs everywhere! pic.twitter.com/kwCGP2kFTz
— Paul Brown (@brownpf) June 11, 2014
Every exit blocked at Trafalgar Sq, no protest chants but beeping horns. Passers by fingers in ears. pic.twitter.com/792IspyaMZ
— Alexandra Rucki (@AlexandraRucki) June 11, 2014
Jeez! The cab strike is creating havoc! Regent Street is jammed pic.twitter.com/KURMCGoaeU
— rassami hokljungberg (@rassami) June 11, 2014
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