Uber launched in Malaysia last October. This is a smartphone app that lets you hire premium, chauffeur-driven cars in Kuala Lumpur.
Origins of Uber
Uber is a San Francisco based transport network company that allows users to hire and pay for cab services directly through their smartphones. The firm was started in 2009, by Travis Kalanick, the CEO, and Gerrett Camp. The service is accessible through Android and iOS mobile apps developed by the company.
Initially, Uber was launched only in San Francisco, but today it is available in major cities around the world, enabling users to enjoy this service even abroad. Kuala Lumpur recently joined the extensive list of cities which includes NYC, Los Angeles, London, Toronto, Paris, Philadelphia, Singapore, Taipei, Bangalore and Milan among others.
Uber Kuala Lumpur
Uber made a soft launch of its services in Kuala Lumpur with its UberBlack fleet of vehicles which includes the Toyota Camry, Nissan Teana, BMW 7 Series, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Currently, there is only a limited number of cars available in KL, until the company makes an official launch.
The base fare for each trip booked on Uber is RM7, plus an additional RM0.30 per minute and RM2 for every kilometer. For example, a ride from Damansara Perdana to KLCC would cost between RM 39 to RM 50. However, Uber offers a flat rate of RM 300 for trips from KL to Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The service can only be used for fares costing a minimum of RM 13. For now, Uber is not charging any cancellation fees.
Payment is done automatically through your credit card. You must use your credit card to register on the app, and then when you use the service, you will be charged through that registered card. Although, toll and other additional expenses are paid in cash.
It will be interesting to see how this app-connected car service performs in Malaysia. Given the subpar public infrastructure and taxi services in Malaysia, this could be a welcome addition for those willing to pay a premium. However, the taxi app service MyTeksi, launched in 2011, has certainly helped people find quality taxi drivers in KL and may be a likely competitor to Uber.
You can download the app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play store.
What do you think about Uber? Share a thought in the comments below.
SEE ALSO:
- Two Great Apps for Booking Taxis in KL
- Electric Cars in Malaysia: An Overview
- Hybrid Cars in Malaysia: An Overview
Original Source: SoyaCincau
Photo Credit: Uber
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Great idea- it is certainly the way I want to travel in KL. hope they have wireless Internet in car too.