Phil Ammann
Uber fans can both go big and go home in Florida this week.
The popular ridesharing technology firm is making a major push in the Sunshine State with an expansion of the UberXL service in six Florida markets.
XL cars will start rolling Friday in Tallahassee, Gainesville, Daytona, Sarasota, Fort Myers/Naples and Pensacola.
UberXL offers higher-capacity vehicles for up to six riders: Toyota Highlanders, Honda Odysseys, Ford Explorers and the like.
As noted on the Tallahassee Uber blog, UberXL will be the “most affordable high-capacity vehicle option in town,” that is spacious, convenient, and low-cost.
To celebrate the new service areas, Uber is promoting its “Fare Split” feature, which allows Uber passengers to share the cost of the ride.
Uber fare splitting works like this: Users request a ride on the Uber app, then tap the “up arrow” icon next to the driver info and select “Split Fare.” After choosing friends, tap “Send.” The friend will tap the link in the text message from Uber. Those who do not have an Uber account will be prompted to download the app and sign up. Existing users go to the Uber app and confirm they want to split the fare. Uber handles the rest.
It helps prevent the occasional friend who “conveniently” forgets to pay for their share of the ride, and it makes a night out even more affordable.
Information on the promotion and UberXL service can be found at the Uber blog.
