The most popular and largest taxi network in the world, UBER, is now in Ukraine.
It has been in the making for a while now, as Uber gradually finalized the necessary documentations for its entrance into Ukraine’s transportation market.
If you don’t know what Uber stands for, the company claims to have a connected network of drivers and passengers in excess of 1 billion. Below is how the company puts it…
Across borders, cultures, and languages, we’re proud to connect people who need a reliable ride with people looking to earn money driving their car.
The Uber system uses its mobile application and GPS technology to match passengers with available taxis within the closest proximity. Registration is required to use the Uber system, whether as a passenger or as a driver, and a rating system helps keep it tidy and weed out participants with poor reputations.
The Mayor of Kiev, former heavy weight boxing champion, Vitaly Klichko was the first to take a ride in Kiev. In his words, he expressed joy that such technological transformation is entering Ukraine, offering words of encouragements
As expected, there are mixed reactions. Established taxi operators know they now have a very strong competition. Uber’s arrival on the scene will obviously pose a big challenge.
Earlier in spring, there were even some demonstrations and agitations against Uber’s entrance into Ukraine’s commute business. The demonstrators argued that it will cause unemployment among those that rely solely on the taxi business for survival.
On the flip side, others believe that it is a wake-up call for all the stakeholders to raise their standards, as consumers now have more choices to make.
Across the board, most passengers are pretty happy with the introduction. Going by the Uber’s standards worldwide, drivers have to undergo some specific compliance test, and the vehicles must also meet the required standards, all while competitively priced with cashless payment. All of these points to a better commute experience for the end user, the passenger.
For students, anything that saves them money is good news. So, obviously students will now be open to a new era of cheaper commute, if a taxi ride is inevitable.