Uber Technologies has been slowly taking over the transportation world in more than 200 cities, Philadelphia included. Say goodbye to pesky tokens, unexpected delays and abominable parking fees. The good news? Getting around the city is now as easy as a tap of the finger, thanks to this ride requesting service. And with their newest program, uberXL, the company’s offerings are only getting bigger and better… literally.
“uberX is a little more affordable, casual and effortlessly cool. Calling one is still super easy: just move your slider across and select uberX within the same Uber app you’ve always used, and you’re good to go!” explains Rashaad Lambert, Uber’s Brand Ambassador for Philadelphia. “uberXL is the newest addition to the Uber family and the most affordable SUV option. With room for up to six passengers, uberXL is comfy, convenient and low-cost. Riders can expect pickups from Toyota Highlanders, Ford Explorers and Nissan Pathfinders, among others.”
We’ve all been there: You and four of your friends are going out in Old City and you have two options for transportation: order two Uber cars to fit everyone inside comfortably, or request one Uber car and hope your driver doesn’t notice the four adults squished into the back seat of their Lincoln Navigator. We think they heard our prayers!
Says Lambert: “As the least expensive Uber service, uberX seats four riders and drivers use their own personal cars to give you a ride. With a slightly higher fare, uberXL seats at least six passengers and the car to pick you up will be an SUV or a minivan.”
The Safe Rides Fee is a $1 fee added to uberX trip fares in cities with uberX ridesharing.
“This Safe Rides Fee supports our continued efforts to ensure the safest possible platform for Uber riders and drivers, including an industry-leading background check process, regular motor vehicle checks, driver safety education, development of safety features in the app, and insurance,” Uber Support explained. “For complete pricing transparency, you’ll see this as a separate line item on every uberX receipt.”
That’s not all. Uber has been going crazy with updates! This innovative company recently partnered with Philly Pretzel Factory and Philadelphia City Council to have an #UberPretzelLove day, celebrating the PA Public Utility Commission, which voted to grant Uber a license to expand their operations further across the state. When news hit on February 5th, riders were pleasantly surprised to get a taste of our city’s signature treat when they rode with Uber.
“You see, it wasn’t so much a partnership as it was a great step forward and we thank councilman Jim Kenney for his leadership and co-sponsor council members Goode, Greenlee, Tasco, Jones, Bass, Reynolds Brown, Squilla, O’Neill, and Henon for their support,” Rashaad said. “To celebrate with our fellow Philadelphians, what better way than to share a Philadelphia tradition like the classic soft pretzels? Well, besides a Philly cheesesteak and a water ice, which, as you can imagine, could be pretty messy in an Uber luxury vehicle!”
Uber is one company that’s been making moves in both the world of digital marketing and ride sharing. If you have yet to take advantage of their services yet, download the Uber app for your Android or iPhone today!
Have you used uberX or uberXL yet? What is your opinion of their new services? Share your thoughts in the comments!