BENGALURU: In a first of its kind initiative in India, ride-sharing company Uber has launched special cabs in the city for the differently-abled and senior citizens. Called Uber Access and Uber Assist, these cabs come with an in-built ramp and extra boot space for those using wheelchairs.
Launched in the city on Tuesday in co-ordination with IT services company MPhasis, Uber has introduced this service only in Bengaluru as of now but will be available in other cities soon.
UberAccess is Asia-first launch for Uber and it’s a forward-facing wheelchair accessible product, the company said. As many as 50 vehicles have been pressed into service, with heightened roof and hydraulic wheelchair lift on-demand. While other vehicles meant for differently-abled usually have side seating or seats with back to the driver, in the newly launched Uber vehicle, the seats are aligned like any other vehicle. An automated ramp lifts the passenger on to the vehicle.
As for Uber Assist, it comes with sufficient boot space to fit folded wheelchairs and the drivers will assist passengers to board and alight from the cab. The company is introducing 500 of these cabs.
The drivers are certified by Diversity and Equal Opportunity Centre. Commuters can book these cabs on the Uber app, like all other cabs. The price will be on par with Uber Premier services.