Uber App Launches on Maui, A New Option in Ride-Sharing

Anuhea is Uber Maui “Rider Zero”. Photo courtesy Uber.

By Wendy Osher

The new Uber app launched today on Maui, connecting riders with drivers on demand.

The service allows individuals to request rides and pay for the service via their mobile phone.

Individuals who need a ride simply go to the app on their mobile phone, tap to set up their pickup location, and request a ride.  After a driver accepts, the next step is to enter an address and name of your destination.

[flashvideo file=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8VjcZeuvmo /] According to announcement, Uber prides itself on meeting the needs of the traveling public by saving time, and providing value and convenience.

The company posted a blog today announcing the launch of uberX and UberBLACK on the Valley Isle, saying the platform “creates hundreds of jobs across the state.”

Maui singer and songwriter, Anuhea, was among the first to catch an Uber ride on Maui, according to the company blog, becoming “Rider Zero” when she booked a ride to her dinner party.

To celebrate the launch, Uber announced that Uber app users can enjoy five free rides on Maui, each up to $50, from now through Christmas, Dec. 25, 2014.

According to Uber, the company currently operates in more than 260 cities and 51 countries in the world.

The Maui launch comes after the UberX launch in Honolulu in June of last year.

A company announcement touts the service as “better, faster and cheaper than a taxi.”

“You’ll be getting rides from local folks using their own cars. They’re everyday people leveraging our technology and their free time to provide you with safe and reliable rides all while earning extra income. It’s a win-win for everyone involved,” the announcement said.

For more information about Uber, here’s some helpful links:  Uber website; Uber Maui blog; Uber Safety; specific information about driver partners’ background checks; and uberX insurance.