After years of trying Uber has arrived in Winnipeg.
The ridesharing service kicked off with a ceremony at City Hall followed by the first ride in the city.
“We know that every time a rider opens their Uber app, they are putting their trust in our technology – not just to request a driver, but also for tools if emergencies arise. Our platform was built with safety in mind,”said Michael van Hemmen, Head of City Operations in Canada for Uber.
When ridesharing was first permitted in 2018 Uber had shown interest in coming to Winnipeg but became embattled with Manitoba Public Insurance over their offerings for ridesharing services.
Since then the ridesharing service and public insurer have reached an agreement that was more suited for the service.
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Winnipeg joins more than 700 cities around the world to offer Uber as an alternative taxis or public transportation.
As Uber launches in the midst of a pandemic and social distancing requirements they have implemented protocols to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
“Now as we navigate the new normal together, we have enhanced policies and features for riders and drivers to help stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Hemmen.
Part of their enhanced policies require drivers and passengers to wear a mask or face-covering.
Uber received a license to operate in Winnipeg on June 8, 2020, and claimed at that time they already had tens of thousands of Winnipeggers signed up to use the service.
A campaign was launched to recruit enough qualified drivers and they expected to begin offering the service within a few weeks.
Uber said that they expect the demand for rides it increase as the service rolls out and is continuing to recruit drivers at drive.uber.com
© News4.ca 2020
