by DION HENRICK in Cape Town
Western Cape Bureau
CAPE TOWN, (CAJ News) – UBER has launched its first electric mobility product in South Africa.
As it commemorates its ten-year anniversary in the country, it has also announced a number of new innovative mobility and delivery products as well as the expansion of existing features to new geographies locally.
“Our mobility business in South Africa has grown over the past few years, evidenced by expansion to nearly 30 cities across the country, and providing independent earning opportunities for over 20 000 earners,” said Kagiso Khaole, General Manager, Uber Sub-Saharan Africa.
“That is why Uber is reinforcing its commitment to contribute to seamless mobility and delivery by innovating new ways to help both riders and drivers move smoothly, hassle-free and feel safe on every trip.”
The electric vehicles for Uber Package will first be available in Cape Town.
The launch of the product is a key step in transitioning the Uber Package fleet to be fully electric by 2023 and in achieving Uber’s global target of becoming a zero-emission platform by 2040.
Uber also announced the launch of Uber Store Pick-Ups, which would enable users to book a delivery person to collect any prepaid items from any store.
In addition, Uber is expanding Uber Van to Cape Town, its luxury rideshare offering Uber Black to Durban, and the addition of Reserve Airport Pickup for its UberX, Uber Comfort and Uber XL rides.
Uber Eats announced the launch of Uber Live, a mobile ordering solution that puts the UberEats pick-up product into the hands of people when they are doing something they love.
“We are committed to creating opportunities for consumers through technology,” said Nakampe Molewa, General Manager, Uber Eats Sub-Saharan Africa.
“We are excited about the launch of Uber Live as we are able to take the food shopping experience to the next level for attendees at large events such as festivals, concerts or sporting celebrations, eliminating endless queues to allow our users to enjoy the event to the fullest.”
A decade since its launch in South Africa, Uber now serves more than 80 percent of the urban population in close to 30 cities across the country.
“We are excited to be celebrating such a significant milestone by strengthening our commitment to creating economic impact as South Africa’s partner for growth and innovation,” Khaole said.
– CAJ News