HYDERABAD: App-based cab services provider Uber launched UberHire in nine cities across India on Monday.The new feature will provide Uber users the convenience of taking multiple stops in between a ride and have a cab wait for them.
UberHire was successfully introduced on a pilot basis in Kochi. Now the service is going live New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Vizag and Nagpur as well. Uber said it would expand the service to more cities soon.
The move came as the ban on ride-sharing service was put into effect with the Karnataka government terming it illegal invoking provisions of the Central Motor Vehicle Act and Karnataka On-demand Transportation Technology Aggregators Rules, 2016.
Through UberHire, a traveller can book and hold a Uber cab for up to 12 hours. The minimum fare ranges between Rs 449 and Rs 649 for two hours and up to 30 kilometres. After this, Rs 2 will be charged per every minute and Rs 12 per every additional kilometre.
While pricing and cancellation charges vary from city to city, dynamic pricing will not apply.
“We are always thinking of ways to enhance the Uber experience. Our technology makes it possible for us to create specialised solutions that can help users have access to reliable transportation at affordable prices. UberHIRE is one such product that addresses the unique commuting needs of riders in India, especially that of tourists, business travellers, senior citizens, families and working professionals by letting them book a Uber and use it for up to 12 hours,” said Apurva Dalal, head of engineering at Uber India, explaining the motive behind UberHire.
UberHire is considered ideal for those travellers who take multiple breaks in their trip. According to Uber, UberHire will be a perfect option for India which has a unique culture with travellers needing transport facilities for festival shoppings, family get-togethers, big fat weddings and other events, which are unique for India. Users can book a cab through UberHire, the same way they book cabs on the Uber app. However, a separate option has been provided in the Uber app for UberHire.