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Uber revamps app to offer London passengers a public transport option

Uber is revamping its app to include public transport information that will allow users to compare journeys based on price and time.

Using publicly available data from Transport for London (TfL), the app will grant users to access real-time information for services such as the Underground, Overground and DLR, which Uber says will allow them to choose which journey is best for them.

Read more: Uber reveals IPO will value firm as high as $90bn

The public transport tab will be featured alongside options for UberX and UberPool. After selecting the public transport option, users will be able to see the fastest routes, the respective time of their journeys and walking directions to and from stations or bus stops.

This morning, Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi tried the app out for himself:

The revamp is part of Uber's strategy to be a "one-stop-shop" for customers in London, which is the second city where the public transport option has been made available, following a successful trial in Denver in January.

Uber has also said it forms part of its commitment to bring an end to car ownership. It admitted that in giving users the option to take the Tube or another mode of transport, it was running the risk of taking away potential business, but said its priority was to "put riders first". 

David Reich, head of transit at Uber, said the move was part of the firm's desire to be a "good partner" in London.

“With 3.5m Londoners relying on Uber, we recognise the important responsibilities that come with being a good partner to this great global city.

“We share many of the same goals as the cities that we serve and are committed to addressing the same challenges: reducing individual car ownership, expanding transportation access and tackling air pollution.”

Relations between Uber and TfL have been rocky over the past couple of years after the transport body revoked Uber​'s licence on the grounds it was not "fit and proper" to operate in the capital. 

Last year Uber won an appeal and was granted a temporary 15-month licence to continue operating in the capital.

Jamie Heywood, Uber's regional general manager for northern and eastern Europe, said: “Over time, it's our goal to help people replace their car with their phone by offering a range of mobility options – whether cars, bikes or public transport – all in the Uber app.

Read more: Why did TfL strip Uber of its licence and what did it do to get it back?

A TfL spokesperson said:  “Our data is open to everyone, with more than 675 mobile phone and online apps already powered by our feeds. We provide up-to-the-minute information, making it easier for millions of people each day to move around our city by helping them plan their journeys.”