Transport for NSW has announced that share riding platform, Uber, will now be able to tap into and provide information on Sydney’s Public Transport systems, which include Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink, Ferries, Buses and Metro networks, to provide its customers with the latest and up-to-date information on services and delays.
Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance Has said that Uber’s new app feature 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,” Mr Constance said.
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, timetable and pricing information will be displayed on the screen of their smart phone, making them even more aware of alternative options to using a car.
The feature will enable customers to get real time departure and arrival times of services whilst also providing Uber users 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,” she said.
“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.
Transport for NSW has said this is the first stage of Uber’s integration with public transport, with the Ministry department also working with Uber to provide ticketing and payment functionality within the Uber app.
The update has begun rolling out to Uber users so you might want to try it out if you’re a NSW / Sydney resident.
I can see myself using Uber to see when the next bus is, seeing that it is delayed by 10+ minutes again, then getting an Uber.