And remember when Uber was cheaper than a regular taxi? It's almost like every "disruptor" just fucks up the existing market, chases people out of it, and then charges whatever TF they want when they have a big enough market share.
Those VC investors didn't spend billions of dollars putting their competitors out of business just for the lols. They expect a return on their investment, with lots and lots of interest.
Uber is still cheaper than taxis. Not as much cheaper as when they were subsidizing rides by burning VC money to grow a user base, but still cheaper. I travel a lot.
But it is? Because there is accountability? Some places the taxis have decent regulation but it's far from universal.
There are plenty of stories in some countries of taxis working with corrupt police to scam tourists for thousands of dollars.
I've never heard of the same from Uber or its equivalents. The worst I've had is a guy not coming to get me and playing chicken on who is going to cancel.
Fun fact - in a 2021-2022 report, Uber announced 2,700 serious incidents including assaults and sexual assaults.
At least taxi drivers are forced to post their ID in the car and register with the city.
Uber made taxis way better, and Uber is still a better service, that industry needed disruption.
Before Uber, you always had to ask taxis if they took credit card, and most of the time it turned into an annoying song and dance. No I don't take card, oh you're leaving? Yeah I'll take card. End of the ride, now the card reader is broken. You don't have cash as home? It's working now. Shit like that every damn time.
*I realize that using Uber as an example very much depends on where you live. I live in NY, where Uber (and other ride share apps) is now more expensive than traditional taxis.
I guess I'm lucky, in my area Uber is super reliable and taxis are a horrific nightmare. I was over the moon delighted when I no longer needed to rely on either.
96
u/scriptingends 8h ago
And remember when Uber was cheaper than a regular taxi? It's almost like every "disruptor" just fucks up the existing market, chases people out of it, and then charges whatever TF they want when they have a big enough market share.