Ride share company Uber and Transport for NSW are collaborating through the introduction of public transport information into the Uber app.
NSW Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance, said that the app’s new function will encourage more people out of their cars and on to the public transport network by connecting customers with the latest bus, train, Metro and ferry options all on the one integrated platform.
“We welcome the decision by Uber to choose Sydney as the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to benefit from up-to-date public transport information within its ride sharing app.
“This collaboration will help people make better decisions on how to get around the city and reduce congestion on our roads.
“When customers enter their destination in the Uber app they’ll see ‘public transport’ as an option. Nearby transport hubs, timetables and pricing information will be displayed on the screen of their smartphone, making them even more aware of alternative options to using a car.”
The app provides real time departure and arrival times and customers can also receive walking directions to and from the public transport stop to their destination.
Head of Cities for Uber Australia & New Zealand, Kate Stannett, said Sydney is the fourth city in the world to have Uber’s new in-app transport upgrade following Denver, Boston and London.
“Uber is looking beyond ridesharing to becoming a true transport platform. We want to help people replace their private car with their phone. To do this people need an alternative that is faster, easier and cheaper than owning your own car.
“An integrated platform of different transport options aims to reduce congestion on our roads. This is good for everyone, including rideshare drivers and riders using the Uber app.
“It’s a credit to the NSW Government, which was at the forefront of ridesharing legislation globally, that we’re able to bring this innovative technology to Sydney.”
This is the first stage of Uber’s integration with public transport. Transport for NSW is also working with Uber to provide ticketing and payment functionality within the Uber app.
