Uber launches carpool option for Seattle commuters
Dec 9, 2015, 12:13 AM | Updated: May 8, 2016, 12:15 am
Starting Thursday you can hop into an Uber in Seattle and carpool with strangers. It’s kind of like riding the bus for people who hate riding the bus.
UberHOP is available on three routes — Ballard to South Lake Union, Capitol Hill to downtown, and Wallingford to downtown — and during commute times: 7:00 – 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
According to Uber, the new service is being tested in Seattle and will cost passengers a $5 flat fee for a ride to the designated stop or back. Unlike carpooling, you won’t be making multiple stops. However, you won’t be dropped off at your exact location either, so leave yourself extra time to walk.
Here’s what you need to do:
• Open Uber, select uberHOP. Choose a route and request an uberHOP.
• They will pair you up with a driver as well as other commuters traveling in the same direction. You’ll then get directions on where and when to catch your ride.
• Using those directions, walk to your pickup location where a driver and your fellow commuters will meet you. You’ll need to be on time as your uberHOP driver will leave promptly.
• At the end of your journey, you’ll be dropped off at a pre-destined stop so you can walk the last few blocks to work.
