Global ride-hailing company, Uber, has announced new passenger restrictions for its services in South Africa. According to a statement by the company, the new limits are expected to make every trip go smoothly by helping to manage comfort, space, and safety, especially when luggage is involved.
Similarly, the company introduced restrictions on luggage as well. However, this restriction isn’t as robust as the passenger restrictions, seeing as all vehicle trips still permit the carrying of luggage across all Uber classes, including UberGo, X, Comfort, Black, XL, and Van.
Per the announcement, Uber Go, the most affordable ride-hailing option that uses smaller, fuel-efficient hatchet-back vehicles, is restricted to two passengers. Uber X, the standard service option that offers affordable rides in sedans, is now limited to just three passengers instead of the maximum four passengers previously allowed.
The Comfort service which offers riders a premium experience with newer, more spacious vehicles, usually high-quality sedans and SUVS, is now limited to just three passengers, even when some SUVs can carry as many as 6.
Uber Black rides, which offer a premium ride-sharing experience using luxury vehicles for a more comfortable and stylish journey, are now limited to just three passengers. This is despite costing a lot and often being used for business meetings or special occasions.
For rides that involve more than three people, the company recommends the use of XL, a high-capacity ride option which carries up to six passengers. This option is, however, only available in Cape Town and Durban. The company also recommends the Van option for large groups as it can accommodate seven passengers. This option is also only available in Johannesburg.
“Please know that this guidance is advisory. If you feel unsure, we recommend that you contact the driver to confirm, as it would depend on the vehicle,” the company said.
Although the company says the introductions are meant to make rides smoother, there are fears that it would significantly influence how passengers travel and perhaps force riders to consider options from other ride-hailing companies.
‘Uber Moto’ bike service launches in South Africa
The development comes as Uber launched its motorcycle service, Uber Moto, in South Africa. Initially introduced in the Johannesburg Central Business District, the service has since spread to Braamfontein, Melville, Greenside, Brixton, Mayfair, Fordsburg, Rossmore, Langlaagte, and Richmond.
According to the company, the new motorcycle service would allow customers to avoid traffic congestion and save time commuting around busy cities. At the time, the Head of Communications, Cassie Jaganyi, said the goal was to enhance mobility, create economic opportunities, and contribute to reducing transport poverty in South Africa.
“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,” she added.
Per the new passenger restrictions, the company said users can request only one seat on the motorcycle thus, there isn’t room for two passengers.
“Uber Moto is your new two-wheel alternative to getting around the Western Suburbs of the Joburg CBD,” the company said in a press statement.
Users who need to send packages are advised to request trips using Courier.
See also: Is Uber planning to dump its commission model for subscriptions in emerging markets like Nigeria?
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