Uber Is a Smartphone-Enabled ‘Ride-Hailing’ Service Alternative to Taxi Cabs

Uber drivers do not possess special licenses; they use their personal vehicles to offer discounted fare rides. Ride-hailing and payment are all handled through a smartphone app, and you need not handle cash or even offer tips to your Uber driver.

Uber is in the cities and other major metro centers. You are traveling to Seattle, Dubai, Tokyo, London, Paris, Montreal, or Chicago, you can expect Uber rides to be available in those cities and other major metro centers.

Uber Is Generally 25% to 50% Cheaper than Taxi Cabs!

While the rates vary with the city and the time of day, there is substantial public data that shows UberX ridesharing can be 25% to 50%

Important Note: Uber does not support nor encourage tipping; any Uber gratuity is considered in the cost of the ride that you pay with your credit card. Taxi cabs, on the other hand, expect a 15% added tip beyond the metered fare.

Uber Responds Faster than Taxi Cabs

Because Uber is attractive for drivers to join, the number of available drivers usually results in very fast response time. While this certainly does vary, Uber riders describe that they get their pickups within  3-10 minutes of hailing, while taxis can take 30-45 minutes after hailing.

Because Uber drivers are rated by every passenger every day, there is the incentive to be both prompt and safe.

Riders commonly cite their reasons for staying with Uber is the short waiting time coupled with the easy payments.

Uber Offers Different Service Tiers

Uber offers a range of service tiers, spanning from single riders and groups up to executive limo services. Uber offers five tiers of service:

1. UberX is the cheapest and most common form of Uber. Regular consumer cars, up to 4 riders. Vehicles must be 2000 model year or newer. Fares are typically half that of a taxicab in the same city.
2. UberPOOL, offered in some cities, allows you to share your ride with another person and split the cost.
3. UberXL is a service that can accommodate 6 passengers with an SUV or minivan; more expensive than UberX.
4. UberSelect offers luxury sedans with leather interior, including brands such as Audi, Mercedes, BMW, which are the common vehicle brands. Expect to pay a premium price, and accommodate up to 4 riders.
5. UberBLACK is the luxury limousine service with vehicles dedicated to executive-level services.