Modern rideshare services such as Lyft and Uber have been on the rise in modern times as a substitute to traditional taxi rides. The trend has dramatically affected the local taxi business and left them looking for alternative ways to make ends meet. Uber has gained popularity in most of the countries and major cities in the world.
The transport company offers prompt and cheaper services in the market, giving it an upper hand in the taxi market. Local drivers use the traditional approach in the provision of services that are becoming obsolete with time. Lyft and Uber use modern technology in their business and provide pocket-friendly charges.
Uber has snowballed over five years due to its focus on meeting customer needs. They focus on reliability, safety, and hassle-free experience when using the app. With a well-managed system that helps drivers manage their time better, Uber and Lyft are the most preferred car driver apps. These apps also offer cheap rates per mileage, and users do not need to pay a trip to the driver, unlike the other local taxi drivers.
The traditional taxi drivers can adopt the right taxi booking software to be relevant to the transport industry. They can adopt the following tips;
Enhance customer service; local taxi operators should consider improving customer experience in their rides. Drivers play an essential role in boosting user experience, and this enhances the business as a whole. Uber and Lyft have mastered this by testing their drivers and training them on practical customer service skills and etiquette.
Ensuring quality; research has shown that local taxis operated by local drivers are poorly maintained, which turns away customers. Taxi vehicles should be regularly cleaned and have the engine checked on time, along with overhauling services. The cars should have functional air conditioners during the hot season to enhance user comfort.
Altering the prices; for successful competition with Lyft and Uber, local taxi drivers need to revamp their prices. Charging fares depending on the distance covered instead of using pre-determined travel prices can enhance it from one point to another.
Differences between Uber and Lyft
Lyft operates in Canada and United States, and the company has set specific requirements on the cars used by drivers with different categories of services. Lyft provides an app for smartphone users which notify clients of the driver’s arrival and provide an estimated cost of the trip in advance.
Uber, on the other hand, renders services in most of the cities worldwide. The company also sets car requirements and lists down different categories of their services. The Uber app on smartphones helps drivers and passengers locate one another and estimate the trip cost before commencement.
Lyft was launched to provide transport security over long distances, and the drivers must pass two background checks before approval to do business with Lyft. The vehicles should have four doors with not less than five safety belts. The company’s service classes vary by city, but the original Lyft provides rides for up to four passengers at a go in regular vehicles.
Partnerships with other companies have enabled Lyft and Uber to get into the food delivery business.
Lyft app allows passengers to split the trip’s cost among themselves as long as they do so during the ride and not after the journey has ended. Due to the small size and limited operation sphere, Lyft has solved many controversial issues associated with digital cab services. Uber also allows friends to split costs through the app. However, many employees working with Uber complained about low wages and an inadequate workplace, but the company is improving the situation.
