Worldwide taxi system proves a hit in Bay

THREE months after its official launch in Port Elizabeth, international transport network Uber is operating successfully and has been transferring clients as far as Grahamstown and Plettenberg Bay, the company says.

The Uber service allows consumers with smartphones who have downloaded an app to submit a trip request, which is routed to Uber drivers using their own cars.

Uber Africa spokeswoman Samantha Allenberg said the transport network was pleased with its decision to bring its service to Nelson Mandela Bay.

“The growth in PE has been amazing . . . we are so encouraged by the support,” Allenberg said.

While Uber did not disclose exact details, demand was being experienced all across the city, she said.

“Key attractions are always popular and we do see an increase in trips during times when people are out or celebrating, like in the evenings and at weekends.

“Uber is a safe and reliable alternative to driving under the influence.”

According to Allenberg, clients making use of Uber in Port Elizabeth include businesspeople, tourists and partygoers.

She said Uber had been engaging with taxi associations since its launch “to find ways we can partner with them”.

“Our technology is open and pro-choice and we are always keen to offer it to a broad number of taxi drivers to boost their occupancy rates and chances for profit.

“In fact, many taxi drivers are already using our technology to boost their incomes.”

Allenberg said Uber did not employ any drivers or own any cars and only partnered with independent operators.

“Since its launch in 2013, Uber South Africa has enabled over 4 000 economic opportunities.”

Port Elizabeth is the fifth city in South Africa – after Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Pretoria – to implement the service.

Uber already has a presence in 361 cities in 63 countries.

The system is cashless and people who download the app are requested to provide credit or cheque card details before registering for the service.