New Fixed-Fare Taxi App Set to Take on Uber

Media Release
February 13, 2014

New Fixed-Fare Taxi App Set to Take on Uber

On February 14, Auckland firm Cabchooze will launch their new highspeed native taxi app — an app designed to provide customers a safe journey at irresistibly low fixed fares for journeys beyond 10kms.

At first glance Cabchooze might seem like another Uber. However, there are some major differences:

1. Fares are fixed and Cabchooze’s algorithm is free from the much-reviled surge pricing.

2. All taxis are supplied by licensed taxi companies, assuring passenger safety and professional service.

3. Every day Cabchooze customers get to “spin to win” for taxi dollars, which can be redeemed on taxi fares or with partner businesses.

How Cabchooze works

Cabchooze enables customers to order a taxi with their smart phone. Customers just enter their pick-up and drop-off locations and then send a request to nearby taxis. The drivers then bid for the job.

“It’s about giving consumers the best,” says Cabchooze Project Director, BK Sharma.

“Cabchooze enables passengers to get the best possible deal for a taxi ride based on price, ETA and the driver’s rating."

There are other benefits, too. Mr Sharma says that because the fare is agreed on at the beginning, people needn’t worry about surge pricing or fear getting “ripped off” by unscrupulous drivers who take the “long way” and charge more.

Mr Sharma says that, unlike the similar Uber-type ride-sharing apps that compromise consumer safety by using assorted drivers, Cabchooze only uses licenced drivers. “Customers can rest assured that they will get safe, professional service as well a great deal,” he says.

A 24/7 0800 number is also available to provide Cabchooze users round-the-lock customer service and fixed-fare bookings.

What about the drivers?

Will the Cabchooze app force drivers to work for less?

“Not at all,” says Mr Sharma. “This is an IT platform that creates a virtual shop front to connect consumers with the closest taxi drivers in real-time. It increases the taxi drivers’ daily earning capacity, which enables them to earn more in less time."

Mr Sharma says Cabchooze will keep the work flowing for drivers, irrespective of any change in the demand and supply pattern. During peak times when the nearest drivers are busy, the customer request automatically logs on to next closest drivers.

The February 14 launch will come in the wake of last year’s successful beta launch. Mr Sharma says the limited release allowed them to ensure the infrastructure was in place before tackling the market full on. “We learned a lot and are now ready to go,” he says.

For more information

Website: www.cabchooze.co.nz
Cabchooze/facebook

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