Uber announced on May 15 that its new Uber Shuttle feature will allow riders to book up to five seats in a shared ride to central locations, like the airport, for less than the cost of a standard ride.
The transportation and tech titan made the announcement during its Go-Get global product event in New York City. The model is one the company has tested in Cairo since 2019. As a feature, Uber Shuttle allows users to reserve tickets for the number of seats they need, guaranteeing space for their party. Riders can also pick shuttles with particular routes and schedules that best suit their plans. Additionally, as with any Uber ride, users can track their trip as they travel.
Where Will the Shuttles Go?
Stops will be at local transport hubs and central locations. The specifics will differ depending on the city, but think airports, stadiums, and live event venues.
How Is It Cheaper?
Booking an Uber Shuttle ride may be cheaper than an UberX because it mitigates paying extra due to surge pricing. In case you’re unfamiliar, the ridesharing company details that surge pricing is when the costs of rides in a particular location go up because the demand is high at that time. The hike in pricing often happens during “bad weather, rush hour, and special events” because there’s an influx of people wanting rides simultaneously.
Understandably, both travelers and airports may benefit from Uber Shuttles. People who need a ride can guarantee they’ll avoid rush hour prices when commuting to the airport. Additionally, Uber Shuttles could make airport traffic less congested and speed up the pick-up/drop-off system.
When Will the New Feature Be Available?
It’s unclear when apps will update with the new feature. During Wednesday’s product showcase, Uber Shuttle’s General Manager Anthony le Roux said the tool would “partner with select venues across the U.S.” this summer.
“We’ll be piloting Uber Shuttle for airports by working with our airport partners to provide convenient shuttle services, multiple times each a day, staright from the downtown locations all the way to the airport curbside,” said le Roux.
Uber’s website notes that launches for all of the products showcased at Go-Get 2024 are “ongoing.”
Learn more about the Uber Shuttle launch starting at the 8:20 mark of the video below.
