RIDEGURU
It's happening. The re-merging of Uber and Taxis will happen. I've been waiting for this to happen for a long time. It'll all be the same thing once again.
Yellow Taxis to Test Upfront Fares and Surge Pricing Amid Ongoing Clash With Ride-Hailing Apps [NBC]
The two-year pilot program, which should roll out in April or May, comes as the city's 13,000 metered taxis continue to compete against ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft, which typically give passengers a set fare before they step into the vehicle, allowing them to compare prices between companies.
Current TLC rules require passengers be charged the metered rate of fare for all trips in taxis.
As part of the pilot program, taxi companies will be able to implement "surge pricing," allowing them to charge more for the service during periods of high demand. They'll determine their own rates of fare and report them to the TLC.
Comments
Surge and upfront pricing are revolutionizing the taxi industry, signaling the end of traditional meters. This change is set to make taxi fares more transparent and predictable for passengers. With surge pricing, fares will fluctuate based on demand, similar to ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. This means that during peak times, prices may be higher, but during off-peak hours, they could be lower.
Upfront pricing will allow passengers to know the exact cost of their trip before they get in the taxi, eliminating the uncertainty associated with metered fares. This move aims to enhance customer satisfaction by providing clear, upfront costs, and reducing disputes over fare amounts.
Taxi companies are adopting these changes to stay competitive in the evolving transportation market, offering a more modern and customer-friendly experience. Keep an eye out for these updates in your local taxi services as they roll out these new pricing models.
4o