Uber revealed several new features at its annual Go-Get showcase, aiming to make rides more affordable and convenient as the company strengthens its lead in the ride-sharing market.
Route Share:
A new option lets users share rides with up to two others on fixed routes during busy weekday hours. The program launches in seven cities, including New York and San Francisco. These rides can cost up to 50% less than a regular UberX and users can book from 7 days up to 10 minutes before pickup.
Ride Passes:
Uber introduced prepaid ride passes to help riders save on frequent routes and avoid surge pricing. For $2.99 a month, users can lock in prices for a one-hour window daily, valid for 30 days or up to $50 savings. Passes are initially available in 10 cities and riders can purchase up to 10 routes per month. Uber also offers prepaid bundles of 5, 10, 15, or 20 rides with discounts of 5% to 20%. Both pass types will soon be available on teen accounts.
Shared Autonomous Rides:
Expanding its partnership with Volkswagen, Uber plans to test shared self-driving vehicle rides later this year and aims to launch in Los Angeles by 2026. The company currently offers autonomous rides in Austin and will expand to Atlanta soon through a collaboration with Waymo, with which it also partners in Phoenix. Uber views autonomous vehicles as a major future opportunity.
Uber One Member Days:
Similar to Amazon Prime Day, Uber will hold special discounts for Uber One members from May 16 to 23, including 50% off shared rides and 20% off Uber Black. Members will also earn 10% back in Uber credits on rentals and Lime rides.
UberEats and OpenTable Partnership:
UberEats teamed up with OpenTable to allow users in six countries, including the U.S. and Australia, to book restaurant reservations and rides together. OpenTable members can transfer points to Uber and UberEats and get a six-month free Uber One trial.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi emphasized that these innovations aim to make travel easier, more predictable, and especially more affordable for riders.