Uber introduces new $50 hourly rate for longer multi-drop journeys in 12 US cities
Ride-hailing firm Uber have introduced a new ’Hourly’ hiring function on its app, aimed at passengers making multiple stops.
As its ride-hailing services struggle during the global COVID-19 crisis, the US transport firm has given riders the option to hire an Uber for a flat rate of $50 per hour.
Within the Uber app, users in twelve US cities will be able to request a ’Hourly’ trip in the same way as an on-demand ride, while setting multiple stops as needed throughout the journey. The cost is $50 per hour with mileage overage varying by city, and riders will be able to book in hourly increments. Once requested, the customer will be matched with a driver who has a newer vehicle make / model of car that are usually eligible for its Uber Comfort service.
Eligible drivers will be able to opt-in for Hourly trip requests in the Work Hub, with no impact to their driving experience if these trip opportunities are declined.
Uber Hourly will initially be available in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, D.C., Houston, Miami, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Seattle, Tacoma, and Tampa Bay. It will be available to 100% of riders in these cities starting Tuesday, June 2nd.
Niraj Patel, Director of Rider Operations at Uber, said: “Following the successful pilot of Hourly in cities across Australia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, this new feature is arriving as a flexible option if and when you need a little extra time running errands, taking a loved one to and from a doctor’s appointment, or getting things done.”
Patel added: “We built this feature for riders that anticipate needing additional flexibility when taking care of essential tasks, and for drivers so that they could access an additional earning opportunity. We hope this feature makes life easier for all customers during this ‘new normal’ and challenging time.”
Image credits: Uber
