Uber Hit the Streets of Penang with Free Rides
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BY CK Lam
Uber has finally descended in Penang, after much awaiting!
All around the world, Uber has revolutionized ground transportation, with its lower rates plus convenient mobile phone technology. Now in Malaysia, Penang is the third city under its belt after Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru.
At Uber soft launching in Penang with Ernest Zacharevic
With Uber soft launch held on 8th May 2015 in Penang, I was invited to the event at Armenian Street. Held at the Little Children On A Bicycle mural by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, the event saw the arrival of the artist himself and Dasha Logan in a Uber Black Nissan Teana. They were the first to ride with Uber in Penang.
For those new to Uber, this is a simple overview on how the mobile application works. Just search for the Uber app in the Apple Store iOS, the Play Store Android or download on your computer and install the app. Create your profile and enter your credit card information. As simple as that!
Whenever you need a ride, ranging from a short trip to further trips around the island, simply open the app and press the button! Drivers in Uber’s network are constantly circling the area, and by the magic of the GPS, the closest one will arrive at your location.
I found Uber to be a very convenient way of travel, with clean cars and timely pickups to be a great plus.
At the moment there is only one Uber option in Penang. I took my first trip from Tanjong Tokong to the heart of Georgetown in a Peugeot. My second trip was to the airport, but this trip in a smaller Perodua Myvi. The average pick-up waiting time for the two trips was around 15 minutes (waiting time depends on the traffic too). I am pleased with the convenience, reliability by drivers, Su Hooi and Kumar.
Each driver will have their own Uber app running to calculate the fare of the journey. The rates are also relatively affordable, compared to other taxis around town. With properly documented receipts sent directly to my email, the documentation and follow-up is definitely a plus for me. We get to rate our Uber experience too!
Without going into the technical aspect, in a nutshell the fare is calculated by some algorithm of distance and time. The base fare is RM2 with RM0.35 for every minute and RM0.70 per kilometer. The cancellation fee is at RM5. The best part is that no cash is ever exchanged and all expenses are charged to your aforementioned credit card.
Receipt of my trip to the airport
Uber is a great alternative for me who wants to make life a lot convenient traveling in town. For all What2seeonline.com readers who want to enjoy the convenience too, key in the promo code: UBERPGWHAT2SEE when you download and register with Uber. You will be given two free Uber rides, up to RM30 per ride around Penang. This offer is valid for new Uber users only.
For more info and technical aspect of the American international transportation network company, head over to their official website.
Happy commuting with Uber!
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Spot the #Uberexclusive car inspired by Ernest Zacharevic and win RM200 cash
Request for an Uber, and you just might be one of the lucky riders to get the chance to ride in this #Uberexclusive car, inspired by Ernest Zacharevic. And as a special treat, snap a photo of the car and post it on social media to win RM200 cash for the best photo! Don’t forget to make your photo public with the hashtag: #uberernest #uberpg. Competition ends 31st May 2015.
