New taxi app aims to compete with Uber

CTVnews.ca
Dec. 19, 2015
By Kim Smith

Canada's taxi industry has launched a new app in its fight against Uber.

The Ride works similarly to Uber by offering passengers a digital way to connect with local taxi cab companies.

“There have been a lot of players in the taxi industry saying this is needed as part of a solution to compete against Uber,” said Nick Quain, CEO of Toronto-based CellWand Communications, the company behind the app.

Users must open a personal profile and then use the cell phone's GPS location before they hail a cab through the app.

Unlike Uber, the app will also give other public transit options, including fares and wait times, so riders can weigh their options.

“What we did is combine that with transit options. So that in Edmonton you’re talking about bus and LRT,” said Quain. “We’re really an aggregation of all your transportation options.”

However, The Ride comes with extra fees through your wireless provider. The app will charge a fixed $2 "convenience fee" for hailing a nearby taxi.

Canadians spent almost $1.2 billion on taxis last year, according to a report from the Competition Bureau released last month.

The federal agency found Uber prices average around 36 per cent less than a comparable cab fare.

A portion of all fees generated from The Ride goes to Mothers Against Drunk Driving.