You Can Now Book Ubers by the Hour in Select U.S. Cities
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Uber is launching a new booking feature next week, the company shared with Travel + Leisure on Friday, giving users the chance to reserve a vehicle by the hour and making it easier to run multiple errands in a single ride.
The new option, called 'Hourly,' will cost $50 per hour and will be available starting June 2 in a dozen U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, and Seattle. According to Uber, this follows a pilot launch of the program in several cities in Australia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Riders can book up to seven hours at a time.
Courtesy of Uber
"Building on a global pilot, we're launching Uber Hourly to provide riders a more convenient way to get things done, and to provide an additional earnings opportunity for drivers as we move forward in this 'new normal'," Niraj Patel, the director of rider operations at Uber, told T+L in an email. "When you need to run errands, head to a doctor's appointment, or grab groceries, Uber Hourly fits around your schedule flexibly for those moments if and when you prefer extra time and added peace of mind."
To utilize the feature, Uber said riders will request the option where they would normally pick the type of car they want. They would then choose the duration and distance of the ride. Uber then matches the rider with a driver who has a newer and more spacious vehicle.
The launch comes as Uber believes more people will start using the rideshare service as states begin to reopen parts of their economy.
Earlier this month, Uber made the decision to require drivers and customers to wear face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Any rider who gets into a vehicle will have to confirm their face is covered, they are healthy, and they have washed or sanitized their hands. Riders are also required to sit in the back seat and open windows for ventilation.
This is a full list of U.S. cities Uber's 'Hourly' is launching in:
Atlanta
Chicago
Dallas
Washington D.C.
Houston
Miami
Orlando
Philadelphia
Phoenix
Seattle
Tacoma
Tampa Bay
