Uber announced on Tuesday that London’s iconic black cabs will soon be available on its ride-sharing platform. The integration of London’s black cabs into Uber’s services is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its offerings and provide users with more transportation options.
Starting Wednesday, London’s taxi drivers will have the opportunity to sign up for trip referrals through Uber. The actual service is expected to be available to riders in 2024. Uber’s move to include black cabs in London follows similar expansions in other major cities, including Paris and Los Angeles. Last year, Uber entered agreements to list New York City taxis on its app and partnered with Italy’s largest taxi dispatch company to broaden its services in the country.
The integration of London’s black cabs into Uber’s platform highlights the company’s commitment to offering diverse transportation solutions to its users. Uber aims to provide riders with a range of choices, including traditional taxis, ride-sharing, and even autonomous ride-hailing services.
In May, Uber collaborated with Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, to introduce autonomous ride-hailing services in Phoenix, Arizona. This strategic partnership showcases Uber’s interest in advancing technology-driven transportation solutions.
For the London service, Uber plans to offer a Black Cab option on its app, allowing users to easily access the city’s iconic black taxis. Pricing for the black cab rides will be determined based on taxi meter time and distance estimates, maintaining the familiar fare structure of traditional black cabs.
London’s black cabs, also known as Hackney carriages, are renowned for their distinctive appearance and are a symbol of the city’s transportation heritage. Taxi drivers in London are required to undergo a rigorous test known as the Knowledge, demonstrating their in-depth understanding of the city’s complex road network.
The inclusion of London’s black cabs on Uber’s platform aligns with the company’s global strategy to collaborate with existing transportation services and enhance its offerings for users worldwide.