Uber launch new service in Cambridge
Cambridge joins 20 other UK towns and cities to use the private car hire service.
Today, Thursday November 10, at 4pm Uber is launching its uberX service in Cambridge.
The Uber app allows anyone to book a trip with a licensed private-hire driver at the touch of a button.
Uber’s announcement read: “uberX provides an easy way to travel safely and at a low cost, complementing Cambridge’s existing transportation options. For example, a journey to Kings College from the Train station would cost £5.80 and from Market Street to the Science Park will cost from £8.65.
“Uber is completely cashless, so there’s no need to stop at a cash machine. With the app, users can book and pay for a licensed private hire car directly to their registered debit or credit card. Simply download the app, create an account and request a car.
“Once requested, the rider can see the driver’s photo, name and car registration number and can watch the car arrive in real-time on a map. The app notifies the rider when the vehicle arrives, so long gone are the days of waiting outside in the rain looking for a car.
“Getting people from A to B is a big responsibility and Uber is focused on using technology to make sure that both riders and drivers are safe. GPS technology means that every Uber trip is tracked and recorded, with details of the driver, rider and route taken. At the end of the trip both the rider and driver rate their experience. This allows us to make sure the most efficient route was taken and creates accountability for behaviour.”
Uber drivers will need to be licensed for private hire and Cambridge drivers will have a license from Cambridge Council which includes an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check - the same required of black cab drivers and care workers.
Fred Jones, Uber’s General Manager in Cambridge, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be launching in Cambridge today. There has been a lot of anticipation for Uber’s arrival and already more than 20,000 people city have opened the app in the last three months. From today we’re looking forward to helping people get a safe and affordable ride at the touch of a button.
“This launch also means that locally licensed private-hire drivers can now apply to use the Uber app and become their own boss - choosing when they want to drive.”
