What do you know, Uber s in the news.
Uber is cutting rates in 48 U.S. markets during the winter season. Drivers need not fret, though, for the San Francisco company is guaranteeing earnings despite the price cuts. We re so confident in the earnings gains drivers will see that we re making earnings guarantees in every city where we re cutting prices, the company said in its announcement. As for where people can get a cheaper ride, see Uber s announcement for the list. (The San Francisco Bay Area market, which saw price cuts last year, isn t on this new list.)
Over in China, a new ban throws a wrench in Uber s expansion plans. The government announced that only licensed taxis can use ride-hailing apps, which means drivers of private cars can t. The new rules affect not only Uber but two competitors that are backed by Tencent and Alibaba. Uber, which is backed by Chinese giant Baidu, faces similar issues in many other places, including France, which is cracking down on services that use drivers without taxi licenses.
Meanwhile, Uber is reportedly testing UberCargo, a delivery offering in Hong Kong. Uber already has a bike messenger service in New York, food delivery in Los Angeles, plus a division dedicated to delivery services. A transportation expert who spoke with our own Pat May recently said he sees a lot of potential for Uber in the delivery business.
Photo of the Uber app on smartphone from Associated Press archives
