From The Next Web · Darius Popa · · 1m 10s
Uber adds parking to its app, eyeing robotaxi costs
Uber launches parking reservations in 15 US cities using SpotHero's network, targeting commuters and cutting costs for its robotaxi partners.
In brief
Uber launches parking reservations in 15 US cities using SpotHero's network, targeting commuters and cutting costs for its robotaxi partners. Uber launched parking reservations in 15 US cities through its SpotHero acquisition to serve commuters and reduce operating costs for robotaxi fleets. Originally reported by The…
Uber launches parking in 15 cities
Uber rolled out parking reservations in 15 US cities including New York, Chicago and San Francisco on Monday, using SpotHero's network of over thirteen thousand parking sites.
How the feature works for riders
Users tap a P icon to find garages, lots and valets for a set date and time, then pay through the app. Uber One members get ten percent back in credits on eligible bookings.
Parking targets commuters and robotaxis
Chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi told analysts that commute is one of Uber's largest categories. Uber also says parking near busy areas cuts costs for robotaxi fleets by reducing empty driving time.
“Commute is one of our largest categories.”
SpotHero deals could lower robotaxi rates
Samarth Kejriwal, Uber's senior director of autonomous vehicles, said SpotHero's contracts with US parking firms could help find cheaper rates as robotaxis reach more cities, ultimately benefiting riders.
“At the end of the day, the rider will care about price and reliability.”
The short version
Uber launched parking reservations in 15 US cities through its SpotHero acquisition to serve commuters and reduce operating costs for robotaxi fleets.
