Uber Opp-inions

"KamikazePigeon" (KamikazePigeon)
09/19/2014 at 10:37 • Filed to: Uber, Opinion, Lawsuit, Taxi, Opp-inions

I've been curious about Uber for some time and I've heard a lot of mixed reviews on it. Most are either REALLY horrible or REALLY amazing.

What does Oppo think about the service? Have you taken it? How's UberX, UberBLACK, UberSUV, UberLUX? How about the drivers? This is if you overlook all the various lawsuits of course, which is a little difficult.

I'm more interested in UberBLACK and their luxury services.

I guess my ultimate question would be: Would you take it over a standard taxi or limo service? Why?

DISCUSSION (37)

Dukie - Jalopnik Emergency Management Asshole > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 10:46

I was actually thinking about this on the way to work this morning. Yesterday I was put "on alert" for a work trip in two weeks. I've been taking a town car service to the airport for the last few years and I really like them, but they're pretty expensive (even though I get reimbursed). In fact, I don't even know if they come out to my rural Seattle suburb.

A couple other questions for those that have Uber'd, what's the normal cost for say, a 20 mile trip to an airport? How fast are they normally (from time to request a ride via the app to when they show up)? Can you Uber in advance (set up an appointment time)?

Tapas > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 10:50

My experience with UberX has been limited but positive. Another competing app called Lyft is equally good. I like it because

1. Its cheaper that taking a cab.

2. You can see if there are any Uber drivers in your area that are available.

3. Some drivers have free mints and bottles of water for passengers.

4. The surprise. The are no standard Uber/Lyft cars. Its just regular people driving their own cars, so you never know what (4/5 door) car you'll get. As an oppo, I wish for a ridiculous/amazing car to show up lol.

5. There are a lot of coupons you can get for free rides and discounts when you sign up or get your friends to sign up, for both Uber and Lyft. Your friends don't have to use the service for you to get the discount, they just have to download the app.

My experience has been limited to times when I travel and don't wanna rent a car or I'm drunk. That said, I'm a happy vomit-free drunk, so don't feel sorry for the Uber drivers lol

Edit: I've used Uber X and Lyft. I saw a question about cost of 20 mile trips. An estimate that a Uber driver game me a long time back was ~ $25 for every 10 miles. Oppos with more Uber experience, please pitch in and correct me if I'm wrong.

KamikazePigeon > Dukie - Jalopnik Emergency Management Asshole
09/19/2014 at 10:50

Great question!

I went to a wedding last weekend and was contemplating using UberBLACK (which is essentially just a step above a normal taxi, similar to your town car service) but I was afraid to pull the trigger not knowing much about it and I did not want that experience to ruin the wedding so I took a normal cab.

Setting up an appointment would be amazing, if possible.

McMike > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 10:52

Mrs McMike uses it. Not the Black or X, just regular Uber. It's pretty cool. There's nothing better than her getting into the airport at 10pm, and feeling confident that she'll get home safely. She hates the uncertainty of cabs, and likes it that they give her a photo, name, make, model and license plate of the car before hand. Hell, they even give her a link to send me so I can watch her progress via the gps coordinates of the driver's phone.

Also, If you and five drunk friends want to get home, it's usually cheaper than two cabs.

KamikazePigeon > McMike
09/19/2014 at 10:56

Awesome! Thanks!

Are you able to pick and choose to any capacity your make and model from those available? (because this is OppositeLock of course) Or do you just hit "Hail" and then you're just given the nearest driver?

Wow that's amazing. Especially being given that extra security and information is really great.

My citroen won't start > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 10:57

In Brazil we are limited to UberBLACK, so a sea of black azeras, corollas and fusions. It is mandatory that all drivers wear suits and have cold water in their car. It is 100% times bette than using a cab. I really like it.

KamikazePigeon > Tapas
09/19/2014 at 11:00

Thanks! It's much appreciated.

That actually sounds really good. I'm a happy vomit-free drunk as well!

Follow-up question: Even with the automatic 20% gratuity, it's cheaper? I think that sells it for me. The lack of exchanging or fumbling with cash is handy as well when you're severely intoxicated.

KamikazePigeon > My citroen won't start
09/19/2014 at 11:09

Ooooooohhhhhhhh. Sweet! That sounds awesome. Thanks!!

Jeff Butler > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:09

I wrote a quick piece about the rise of Uber and Lyft and the implications for disabled travelers which ties closely to this. Check it out!

http://oppositelock.jalopnik.com/uber-and-lyft-…

KamikazePigeon > Jeff Butler
09/19/2014 at 11:10

I actually just read this! I'm just about to post my comment to your article.

Thanks for the heads up!!!

Tapas > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:18

No problem!

I think its cheaper than a taxi. Use it once when you're sober to experience it (and retain the memory lol).

The Uber app has a 20% automatic gratuity by default, when you get the app. But this percentage can be changed.

https://support.uber.com/hc/en-us/artic…

With Lyft, you choose the tip amount at the end of your ride.

https://www.lyft.com/help/article/1…

For Sweden > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:20

UberBlack is a standard limousine service; you're just using the Uber app instead of calling a limousine company.

Now that Uber and similar apps exist, I will never use a taxi again if I can help it.

jariten1781 > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:24

I've used it a few times when I've missed my work shuttle and needed to make it to a meeting. It worked. I can't say it was an amazing experience or anything, pretty much like taking a cab but in a different car. I did have to give multiple drivers turn by turn directions when we got to the office complex because it's not mapped in their GPS...they all tried to drop me at a main street about half a mile away from the building. They didn't give me any grief, but regular taxi drivers have always known where to go. Because of that I'm not sure I'd use it in a place were I wasn't familiar with the destination.

SmoresTM Has No Chill (O==[][]==O) > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:26

I use Uber all the time. I usually use UberX, but have used UberBlack and XL a number of times. I've never had a bad experience with them. I've had a few drivers in the wee hours of the mornings that seemed kind of annoyed to be working, but I've never felt unsafe or anything along those lines (I'm a 20 year old, 6 foot tall guy though, so take that as it is). Some of the drivers that I've had are okay, some are good, and some I have actually had wonderful conversations with. The good part about Uber is that they do care (or do a really good job of acting like they care) what their customers think. My good friend has used Uber enough that if she gave a drive a bad (2 star or less) review, they would likely lose their job. Personally I've only had one issue with a driver taking too long to pick me up, so I contacted customer support and they ended up giving me a credit for a free ride. Yes, there are people who have had really bad experiences but I don't know any of them. My only real complaint is Uber's pricing. I've accidentally called an UberBlack or XL when I meant to call an UberX and have been unpleasantly surprised that I just spent over $20 on $10 cab ride. Other than that, I love the service. The cars are always SO much cleaner than a cab and far more comfortable. I would certainly recommend it.

doodon2whls > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:28

I used UberX in Chicago on a mid-weekday around 2100 hrs. I was traveling for work, but didn't feel the need to spend tons of cash on a limo ride if there were cheaper and more convenient options - especially at the last minute. I used the Uber app to request a ride and it kept me updated on his progress towards my location. Only a 7 minute wait - not to bad.

We rolled out of downtown in his mid-2000's corolla and I asked him a lot of questions about his work for Uber. He works for a big tech company and commutes into downtown from north of ORD, so he regularly picks up an UberX ride out to ORD in the evenings on his commute home. Every once in a while, he picks up a ride in the morning, but at the time, they weren't allowing UberX to pick up at ORD. He was a cool dood overall.

The car wasn't anything special, but UberX is essentially a car sharing service - not a limo. His car was clean and he acted professional. I rode from theWit in downtown to ORD - 18 miles in 28 minutes. Including their 25% off promotion and the $10 credit I had from a friend's Uber-invite, the $28 ride only cost $11. THAT is a cheap ride. I am not a regular taxi user, but I would definitely use Uber again if presented with the opportunity.

KamikazePigeon > jariten1781
09/19/2014 at 11:31

Really amazing points! Thanks!

That does concern me a little, especially in a place I'm unfamiliar with. If it's in my home city, it would be great. Using it abroad might be risky if it isn't a well-known destination.

TwinCharged - Is Now UK Opponaut > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:33

Uber has been started in Hong Kong, but as far as I can tell, there's no way it can beat the local taxi system unless you desperately need transport during the shift changeovers when it's impossible to catch a taxi. Riding a local taxi here is pretty cheap and when compared to Uber, I don't see why I should take it. I compared the prices I usually pay for my usual routes to what Uber would cost - Uber charges around HKD20-30 more than a local taxi.

doodon2whls > Dukie - Jalopnik Emergency Management Asshole
09/19/2014 at 11:34

The rates and timing for a ride is dependent on car availability which varies from city-to-city hour-to-hour. You cannot schedule a ride ahead of time. It is an on-demand service.

The UberX option is pretty cheap and usually undercuts the regular taxi fares which is why the Taxi companies are up in arms. Uber has little to no overhead compared to the large Taxi companies.

The FAQ @ Uber.com is pretty good... You should check it out:

https://support.uber.com

KamikazePigeon > SmoresTM Has No Chill (O==[][]==O)
09/19/2014 at 11:35

Awesome thanks for the heads up!

I'm definitely gonna try it when the opportunity arises.

KamikazePigeon > TwinCharged - Is Now UK Opponaut
09/19/2014 at 11:37

Good thing to keep in mind. I guess the only way is to try it and see if it really is cheaper/better than the local taxi companies.

Thanks!

Dukie - Jalopnik Emergency Management Asshole > doodon2whls
09/19/2014 at 11:38

Yeah, I was just poking around on that. What's odd is, they say "If you're in the blue, we'll get you a ride" in the FAQ about where they are. However, I requested a rate quote from my city (which isn't in the "blue") to Sea-Tac Airport, and it gave me all the rate options.

KamikazePigeon > doodon2whls
09/19/2014 at 11:41

I would definitely fit under that umbrella. I use a taxi maybe once every few months, if that. But having the option really intrigues me. I wouldn't expect anything completely nuts vehicle-wise with UberX for a normal ride.

Thanks! I'll definitely keep that promotion in mind as well if I sign up.

doodon2whls > Dukie - Jalopnik Emergency Management Asshole
09/19/2014 at 11:43

Just because it gives you a rate quote doesn't guarantee that there will be availability. You would have to download the app and enable location services and it will show you the Uber vehicles and their level that are nearby. I am pretty sure I could get a ride _from_ PHL to my house, but probably not the other way around. The service is really aimed at metropolitan areas where the population density is higher.

doodon2whls > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 11:49

If you have a friend that you know uses Uber, have them send you an invite. Then you both get discounts off of your next ride. My invite was 1.5 years old and they still honored it because it was on my account. They run promotions in different cities regularly and you'll get email updates from Uber on them.

Dukie - Jalopnik Emergency Management Asshole > doodon2whls
09/19/2014 at 11:51

Yeah, I sent a message to them regarding my question. We'll see what's up.

ZHP Sparky, the 5th > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 12:11

OK this is going to be a long one. Living in the SF bay area I think it's pretty cool to see and use these services right from the start - I've been using Uber and UberX (since its introduction) for years now and have been keenly following them as a business.

When Uber first started up (towncar service) years ago my friends and I used it on busy days to get to concerts, etc. - service was great, still is. Priced reasonably for what it is and super convenient.

I've used UberX a lot too - its 5-10% cheaper than using a cab and its undeniably cleaner and more pleasant service. Similar services like Lyft and Sidecar are the same story but perhaps UberX has a bit more of a clean and sophisticated vibe to it.

HOWEVER, I have some gripes with Uber as a company and currently am avoiding using UberX for a variety of reasons -

- the driver pool has been a very mixed bag lately. They have a HUGE amount of turnover - people being recruited with bonuses, promise of great $$$ but that not really panning out. Uber has consistently been cutting driver's pay rates, and based on the number of hours they work, wear and tear on their cars - there's growing dissent amongst the old-timers. Soon enough this will get figured out though, and the market will decide for itself who remains a driver and who jumps ship. There are a LOT of newbie drivers out there right now though, which is frustrating - literally not knowing how to get anywhere in the city, bad drivers, etc.

- more importantly, their insurance tactics really displease me. It annoys me that most riders jump into these cars with zero knowledge about the issues.Until very recently after years of drama and protests, UberX finally has commercial insurance for while a driver is on a confirmed ride (i.e. before this Uber just said "meh, the drivers are independent contractors - insurance isn't our problem, their personal coverage will take care of it - which is a problem since personal insurance will kick you to the curb the minute they realize you're using your car for commercial activity). Still, to this day - a driver is not covered under Uber's policy while they are logged on to the app and actively looking for a ride. These drivers are constantly roaming the city, around popular areas hoping to get called for a custoner (i.e. typically distracted on their smartphone apps) - with no insurance coverage. New years eve last year a little girl was killed in SF by an inattentive UberX driver roaming around waiting to get picked up, and of course the case is still in limbo - Uber claims no responsibility, of course the drivers personal insurance (rightfully) wants nothing to do with it. Sure, while you're using the app it doesn't matter to you - the commercial insurance kicks in, you're covered. But for public safety Uber needs to work better on getting UberX drivers covered all times they're on the job.

- Uber corporate has been very aggressive and sketchy in how they go about their business. First they claim they're a "new platform" and hence current passenger service regulations don't apply to them. See insurance point above, background checks on drivers (many cases of drivers with prior convictions, DUIs, hell even people driving under someone elses account), using fake phone #s to call and drop rides to overload competitor systems, etc.

Yes, the taxi industry is horrible and this is a great wake up call for them. But they do also have strict regulations that are in place for a reason. The medallion system is a load of crap, but the insurance, vehicle safety and emissions requirements, driver tests and checks - they're all there for a reason. Yet none of them apply to Uber(X). Taxis in SF have been getting better since this competition came up - they even have similar apps (try Flywheel) - its basically Uber for Taxis - so you know where your cab is and when it will arrive, contact driver, etc. but also the public safeguards that Uber doesn't provide and claims doesn't apply to them.

It's a great service - i used Uber and UberX for years - but i want them to grow up and clean up their act. Once they're on a more level playing field, sort out their driver issues, and don't have their current levels of VC funding (they've got TONS of cash) it'll be interesting to see if they can remain competitive. I hope they can and get there soon. In the meantime it's good the taxi system has a very large threat making them reconsider their business models - and hopefully the antiquated medallion system will be revamped too. I'm thankful for Uber's (and sidecar, lyft etc) entry to the market to wake it up - but I also want them to have some safeguards and regulations to deal with (which many of these "sharing economy" companies are lobbying tooth and nail to avoid).

KamikazePigeon > ZHP Sparky, the 5th
09/19/2014 at 12:23

Extremely well laid out! Thanks for the in-depth insight. It's exactly what I was looking for.

The business practices within their company make me wonder if I should support such a thing. However, I can't deny the potentially amazing service offered.

I may give it a shot just to try it and see for myself. Would you recommend Lyft, Sidecar over Uber in terms of business practices alone? Or are they all generally the same? what about the services across the three in general, could you pick a front runner in your opinion?

ZHP Sparky, the 5th > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 13:29

A lot of these problems will get sorted out with time, and will result in a better set up (for consumers at least) - so I suppose this is just part of the process.

All the ride sharing platforms essentially have the same issues, so I wouldn't say one has a better corporate mantra than the other (except maybe that Uber is far better funded and a bigger corporation - so they have a wider reach, better foothold on the industry, and the ability to be more bullish - both in driving regulation via lobbying, and attacking competitors - more aggressive sign up bonuses, price cuts/promotions, etc.). The current direction things are going - if any regulation isn't put in place for these ride share companies (and it's a city by city issue too) I don't know if the taxi services are going to survive (just this week a SF report came out saying that taxi rides fell by something like 64% compared to prior year). As a result of this, I certainly hope that the necessary regulations are put in place soon that would still allow these platforms to be profitable - and also that Uber doesn't completely eat up their competition, because I'm not sure an Uber monopoly will be significantly better than a bureaucratic taxi system. I have a certain level of distrust towards corporate practices (I've worked on the finance side in silicon valley for a decade, and even the most philanthropic seeming company is driven by $$$ at the end of the day) - if their sole goal is to maximize profits, they have no competition and a significant foothold in the market, they start losing the incentive to serve their customers better....sounds like the old taxi industry?

I wouldn't hold it against you for trying out the business and forming your own opinions, of course. Service across all 3 main businesses are generally the same. The only variance I'd say is UberX is more prim and proper (think black/gray cars, all prius or maxima or something like that - kind of trying to be the clean cut preppy option appealing to the corporate types, sit in the back seat - minimal conversation expected, etc.). Lyft is a bit more eclectic (kind of quirky with heir pink mustache, more casual - you sit up front, fist bump your driver when you get in/out, etc, and seemingly less rigid on allowed cars - i've been in everything from a Jag XJ to a yellow FJ cruiser. It's a fun option if you're heading out on the town, maybe less so if you're trying to get to a meeting or sharing an intimate evening on a date). Sidecar I wasn't particularly impressed with the few times I used it - had a few mediocre experiences (raggedy cars, a driver i swear was high, etc.), could totally be anecdotal of course and I'm sure there are the random odd chances of shitty service on any platform (I once had an UberX driver who didn't know where the only/main train station in SF was and blankly told me I need to navigate for him, and another who almost wiped out a cyclist as he tried to pick me up and vehemently denied it the entire ride and then gave me a "discount since i was such a great customer" by ending the counter on the ride a few blocks early).

Thes platforms are a pretty clearly a glimpse in to the future and the way forward - I think we can support a platform/business yet also demand more accountability of them. I don't understand the hardcore bandwagon fans who essentially have a "Uber can do no harm!" attitude, which clearly isn't true if you look around. Pretty much every consumer protection we enjoy and take for granted came around because somebody stood up for it - I think we can support a promising business model but also vote with our wallets and our voices to keep these companies in check.

BZiel > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 14:20

I haven't used Uber in the US yet, but here around Frankfurt I use it quite often. It is definitely more expensive here in Germany than taking a taxi from outlying areas of the city, but the service has always been quicker and more reliable than trying to find a taxi.

Here the base fare for UberPOP is 1,00€ with a 0,25€ per minute and a 1,00€ per kilometer charge. For UberBlack the base fare is 4,00€ with a 0,40€ per minute and a 1,40€ per kilometer charge. Obviously, the cost can grow rather quick for longer trips, or, getting stuck in traffic, which is everyday here.

The drivers have always been very polite, knowledgeable of the area, and super accommodating, even allowing me to take my two large dogs along without any questions.

What is really nice is that with my phone and the Uber app, I can book a car in about 30 seconds, have it waiting when I am ready, and be on my way with no hassles.

What has really surprised me is the range of cars Uber drivers are using here. I've been in everything from BMW 5 series to E-Klasse Mercedes to Renault Twingo's.

Manuél Ferrari > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 17:24

I've used UberX about 10 times. Never used the other kinds.

Every single trip I took was awesome and much better than taxis.

I'll never take a taxi again unless I'm in an area where Uber is not an option.

KamikazePigeon > ZHP Sparky, the 5th
09/19/2014 at 17:26

Extremely well laid out. I could not agree more.

I'll report back on another short article with what happened on my first ride in an Uber.

ZHP Sparky, the 5th > KamikazePigeon
09/19/2014 at 17:38

Yes, certainly post something on your thoughts afterwards! I'm surprised there isn't more talk on jalopnik/oppo regarding this trend given how much it's affecting/changing our options when it comes to driving. Especially living in an urban area, it really is making not having a car, or having an impractical car that you only take out on weekends (i.e. not to commute/run errands) an option given the convenience and low price points being introduced.

Uber in particular has openly expressed that their goal is to reduce the ride costs down to the level where owning a car doesn't make financial sense anymore. Not sure how realistic that is - but if it brings price low enough to have the option of not owning one for those who don't want to, and the ability to own something stupidly impractical for those of us who love cars and yet not have to commute in it - I'm intrigued by it.

As for your original question - UberBlack is pretty much the same as any black car service with the added convenience of an app - there really isn't any controversy surrounding them. They're all licensed, fully insured, etc - really great service, if you can afford it or have work pick up the tab. It's UberX and the comparable budget platforms that is really changing the taxi industry and has a lot of gray area still to be figured out.

ZHP Sparky, the 5th > Dukie - Jalopnik Emergency Management Asshole
09/19/2014 at 19:06

Tip - please also note that in some cities it is illegal for UberX (the lower cost option) to pick up from an airport. This has to do with traffic planning at airports and only a certain number of licensed taxis are allowed to serve airports - so they don't want an unlimited number of untracked "ride share" providers picking up fares at airports. Of course regular Uber (black car service) is perfectly legal I believe - as they are all state registered and insured limo services.

Richie > ZHP Sparky, the 5th
09/20/2014 at 13:19

Watch out for the Uber / Lyft monopoly . Limited insurances, inexperienced drivers, safety concerns ( I know of a driver who was fired by Goober because he didn't take 7 people in his Honda Accord equipped with 4 seat belts ) and an unregulated monopoly that refuses to abide by rules and regulations, permits, inspections and more .

Richie > ZHP Sparky, the 5th
09/20/2014 at 13:19

Conan > KamikazePigeon
09/24/2014 at 18:43

Ultimately their goal is to both remove limo/taxi drivers and car ownership. I do my best to avoid using them if at all possible. With that in mind, both times I've been forced to use their luxury service (helping to transport my sick grandmother) have been excellent. We were very well taken care of.