UberPlus is business class for taxis
Uber has introduced a new service that sits between its standard UberX and high-end UberBlack. It’s called UberPlus, and it’s like business class for taxis.
It’s pricier than UberX – though still more affordable than a regular taxi, Uber is at pains to point out – but cheaper than UberBlack. The base fare is $5 (to UberBlack’s $8), then you’ll be charged $0.40 per minute, and $2.35 a mile. The minimum fare is $10, with a $1 safe rides fee.
Order through it, and
Here’s the catch – it’s only rolling out in Los Angeles at the moment. Though expect it to reach other cities around the world soon.
Uber warns that demand may be high while it gets up and running, so you can expect delays.
Uber has met with opposition all around the world from taxi drivers who claim it’s flouting accepted rules of conduct. In London, cab drivers have protested, saying the service breaks Transport for London’s rules.
The service was banned in Germany last month, though a judge has since overturned the ruling.
Travis Kalanick, Uber’s boss, recently told the BBC he was not a bully. “I’ve never been derogatory towards taxi drivers,” he said. “In the US there’s basically a cartel of taxi companies, I was referring to them.”
Read more: What is Uber and why has it caused a black cab protest?