Uber to expand across BC including Kamloops and Okanagan
Options are widening for ride hailers in Kamloops as tech giant Uber expands its BC footprint.
The ride hailing company is planning to move its operations beyond the three cities its been held to so far, aiming for a launch early next year, according to a news release.
The Nov. 15 announcement included a call for drivers. Although it didn't include an expansive list of cities that would be included, Uber Canada's mobility general manager Michael van Hemmen said they're seeking drivers "from Nanaimo to Fort St. John and everywhere in between."
Although Okanagan operations are currently in the Kelowna area, it's expected Uber's expansion would include communities across the region. Company spokesperson Keerthana Rang confirmed Kamloops and Salmon Arm would be included.
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Provincial regulator, the Passenger Transportation Board, approved Uber's expansion from its Vancouver-only operations in May 2023. Uber took over another ride hailing company's licence, ReRyde, which struggled to get enough drivers due to licensing restrictions.
The approval was met with pushback from other companies including taxis and ride hailers. URide, operating in smaller centres including Kamloops and the Okanagan, and Luck To Go in Kelowna argued Uber shouldn't be allowed to take on another company's licence, but failed.
Uber started first with expansions to Kelowna and Victoria only with a three-year financial projection. The licence allows for operations across the province, but Uber was given a condition that it provide the board first with a three-month notice. There was no indication at the time of when Uber would consider moving into other cities.
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Rang said Uber has notified the regulator.
Uber's call for drivers comes with a $500 bonus for new drivers, provided they complete 10 trips within the first four weeks of the company's launch.
Go here if you want to driver for Uber.
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