Comparing Uber with regular taxi services

The pros and cons of regulated cab services versus ride-sharing newcomers

It’s been less than a decade since Uber was launched (2009), and just five years since it expanded to Asia (in Taipei, ironically, given Uber has currently suspended operations in the Republic of China). While in many cities there is fast, convenient public transport to transfer you from the airport and whisk you around town, often a taxi is still the preferable (or only) option. But where taxi charges are on the high side, or finding a cab when you need one is difficult, ride-sharing companies like Uber have gained a foothold.

In Australia Uber is officially permitted by the government, with major city airports even offering dedicated Uber pick-up zones. Hong Kong allows Uber to operate if its drivers have a proper permit, but worries about suitable third-party insurance coverage remain a big issue.

Not all countries are as welcoming, however. In India, New Delhi has banned Uber, and the app-based service is facing serious roadblocks in other major cities. The company’s extensive battles with the Taiwanese government and taxi drivers resulted in its withdrawal from that marketplace, and over on mainland China, Uber sold out to national ride-sharing firm Didi Chuxing after struggling to compete in the PRC.

There are ethical and safety concerns about looser regulations related to ride-share apps that have been flagged by readers on businesstraveller.com/forum. But if money is your main concern, the following table shows relative costs: