Last year when we covered the 2015 Bangkok Motor Show, we noticed motorcycles offering taxi services, zipping in and out of traffic. Well, no surprises there, as traffic jams are incredibly bad in Bangkok, especially during rush hours (average speed is just 11 km/h)!
So, it would seem natural for Uber to launch their new motorcycle taxi service in Bangkok, aptly named UberMOTO. Thailand is the first country to use motorcycles for their ride sharing service.
Uber’s new UberMOTO service will be made available in Sathorn, Siam and Silom. Douglas Ma, Head of Asia expansion for Uber said, “Motorcycles are part of the commuting culture in Thailand. Uber’s goal is to provide safe, affordable, reliable transportation at the push of a button, everywhere for everyone.”
Users will be able to select the UberMOTO option when the launch the Uber app. Once the user has been matched with a rider, the UberMOTO rider will provide the user with a helmet.
Furthermore, Uber is working with the Thai Traffic Police to promote safety for motorcycle safety. The San Francisco-based company will be donating helmets to young students and adults.
Fares start at THB 10 (RM1.18) plus THB 3.50 (RM0.41) per km and THB 0.85 (RM0.10) per minute. The minimum fare as well as cancellation fee are both THB 10 (RM1.18).
