Would you be willing to take an Uber ride on a motorbike in 2025? This is the new ride option that Uber is piloting for its customers in Johannesburg.
The e-hailing company said that it would pilot rides on the back of motorcycles for customers in certain parts of Johannesburg’s CBD.
The new offering will mean that rides could start from R18 and additionally would allow customers to avoid traffic congestion and save time.
Cassie Jaganyi, head of communications at Uber South Africa told IOL that one of the main goals of the new pilot programme is to provide more options for South Africans.
"As Uber, our goal is to enhance mobility, create economic opportunities, and contribute to reducing transport poverty in South Africa," she said.
"As part of our commitment, Uber is piloting Uber Moto, in Joburg West. We are testing a potential solution to address first- and last-mile transportation in areas with limited transportation coverage to complement existing transport options. We are in conversation with the relevant stakeholders to test and evaluate for broader expansion," Jaganyi added.
Safety is a top priority
Safety is a major priority for the new Uber Moto program and Jaganyi said a number of measures have been put in place.
This includes:
Helmets are provided for both riders and drivers.
High-visibility jackets for drivers to increase visibility.
Head nets for riders to ensure hygiene when sharing helmets.
Driver competency evaluations through the Moto Driver Evaluation programme.
Enhanced private security deployment via partnership with AURA.
In-app safety features like live trip tracking and access to an emergency assistance line.
Uber said that customers who try the service could get a 35% discount on their first three trips, available to the first 50,000 riders until March 31, 2025.
This is not new for Uber...
The Moto programme had successful launches in Bangkok in 2016, where it was first piloted.
Since then the company has brought the service to Rio de Janeiro, Cairo, Lagos, and just recently Bengaluru.
Last month, the e-hailing business introduced Uber Moto Women in Bengaluru, offering women-only bike rides.
"This two-wheeler ride service connects female riders with female drivers and is designed to address women’s safety and mobility needs while empowering female drivers with flexible earning opportunities," Uber said.
IOL BUSINESS