Taxi app Uber has lodged a bid to start operating in Hull and plans to have around 250 drivers.
The US-based ride-hailing firm has lodged an application for a private hire licence, which is set to be heard by Hull City Council’s Licensing Committee next Monday. A report to the committee stated that services would include regular cars, larger minibuses, executive and pet-friendly travel and vehicles adapted for accessibility issues.
Uber struck a deal in 2022 to let users of its app book taxis provided by local firm Hull Cars. The new application from Uber Britannia Ltd, the company’s UK arm, would mean it could launch its own services, if councillors approve it.
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Riders can also give feedback on their journeys and rate their driver. The report to the committee stated that all of Uber’s vehicles and drivers would be licensed by the council, which would conduct all relevant checks on them.
According to the application document, Uber initially plans to have 250 drivers. The company has requested an exemption from council rules requiring it to display prices in its cars because its app system means prices fluctuate according to demand.
If the application is approved on Monday, Uber could become the first app-based ride hailing firm from outside Hull to get up and running. Uber rival Bolt was previously granted a private hire licence in May 2021 and advertised jobs for drivers, but its services never materialised.
Both Hull Cars and Drive currently offer apps to book private-hire vehicles. Uber is available in several major UK cities including Manchester and Leeds. Last November, the firm announced that it would open up its app to London’s black cab drivers – though the offer was dismissed by the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association.
Original artice – https://business-live.co.uk/all-about/yorkshire-humber
