Gone are the days of holding out your arm to hail a cab, now it’s all done on mobile. Car service apps are providing a cheaper and convenient travel alternative. Just type in your journey and you’re presented with a list of available drivers ready to take you to your destination.
As providers of taxi insurance we’re noticing an increase in car service and ride-sharing apps. Most people have heard of Uber but what about all of the other apps out there. Here’s an overview of some Uber alternatives you may find useful.
Hailo
Image Source: Jon Russell on Flickr
Founded in 2011 and available in more than 20 cities Hailo provides a professional alternative to Uber. Hailo’s drivers are licensed, trained and knowledgeable about their city.
The app itself is simple to use, you can choose your location, vehicle type, and pay before accepting the ride. Plus all transactions are made through the app and receipts are kept on record. This seems like a good Uber alternative.
Gett
This free to download app works on iPhone and Android devices and is available across 57 cities. The key difference between Uber and Gett is that they offer optional payment methods, so if you want to pay in cash you can – prices are also fixed – bonus! Like Hailo all drivers are licensed, plus you can track your cab from your device.
Overall Gett offer a practical service and an easy to use app.
LiftShare
Liftshare are an alternative to UberPOOL, the Uber ride sharing app. Liftshare gives you the ability to search for or offer lifts to people heading in the same direction as you. Liftshare is not limited by region but by where drivers are heading. It’s simply better for the environment and a cheaper way of travelling.
Google Ride Sharing App
Most recently Google have entered this market offering a ride-sharing service. Testing started back in May near Google headquarters in San Francisco. Working with Waze, a company Google acquired in 2013, they aim to offer low fares and connect riders with drivers.
Unlike Uber, Google merely want to make commuting simpler. Fares are kept low because Google are not taking a fee and drivers offer services to riders heading in the same direction. This simple service means that drivers are not meant to act as taxi drivers and only receive petrol money for their service.
If all goes well who knows we may see the Google ride-sharing app in the UK by 2017.
Do you have a preferred Uber alternative? Tell us about it on Facebook and Twitter – join the conversation.
