Uber is rolling out a new feature allowing users to reserve seats on a shuttle to get to and from high-traffic areas like an airport or sports stadium.
Uber is partnering with local fleet providers for use of the shuttles, which will seat between 14 and 55 riders. The shuttles can be booked up to seven days in advance and riders pay directly in the Uber app. Users, who are able to book up to five seats on each shuttle, will be able to track the location of their vehicle in the Uber app within 25 minutes of departure time. The app will generate a QR-code ticket that’s validated by the driver while boarding.
The new service announcement came as part of Uber’s annual GO-GET product event. The company heavily focused on getting together and saving money, as consumers continue to worry about the economic climate and cut discretionary spending. The company said that Uber Shuttle, for example, will be a fraction of the price of an UberX, its regular car-on-demand service.
Here’s what else Uber announced at GO-GET 2024:
Scheduling UberX Share
Uber will now let users schedule shared rides in advance in cities that have experienced some of the highest return-to-office rates. The hope is to target commuters, who can reserve their seat in cars on the way to work. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said in the company’s earnings call last week that they want to increase the number of commuters who return to using Uber as a daily habit. “We see the weekday commute use case being particularly strong as people are coming back to work,” Khosrowshahi said on the call.
Uber is bringing UberX Share booking to New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, and Atlanta before expanding to more cities.
Uber One for Students
Uber is rolling out a discounted membership program to attract students who may not want to pay for the full Uber One fee. Uber One for Students is $4.99 per month or $48 per year. Students will get $0 delivery fees and up to 10% off orders, as well as special deals and free items.
Costco delivery
Uber Eats is adding Costco to its delivery program. People ordering don’t have to have a Costco membership to order from the retailer, but those who input their membership numbers will receive an additional (but undisclosed) discount.
Uber Caregiver
Caregivers will be able to book others rides to doctor appointments, purchase medical supplies and over-the-counter items, and order groceries through Uber Caregiver starting this summer. The company, which is starting off with the rides functionality, will apply benefits when eligible, in an effort to minimize out-of-pocket costs.