Everyone knows that one of the best ways to beat Bangkok traffic, apart from the BTS (when it’s actually working), is to hop on a motorbike that can weave through the jams.
So it’s a pretty nifty idea for Uber to launch its first motorcycle taxi service, UberMOTO, in Bangkok today.
The company said Bangkok was chosen as the first city globally for their pilot scheme since moto taxis were “already part of the transportation fabric in Thailand.”
“Motorcycles are part of the commuting culture in Thailand,” said Douglas Ma, Uber’s head of Asia expansion.
“Uber’s goal is to provide safe, affordable, reliable transportation at the push of a button, everywhere for everyone.
“With UberMOTO, we’re thrilled to introduce a product that resonates with Thai people and provides another easy and affordable option for short trips around town while creating tens of thousands of flexible work opportunities for Thais.”
The service will first launch in Sathorn, Siam and Silom. Users will be able to see the new “UberMOTO” option when they open their Uber app.
Once you’ve requested a driver and been matched with one, the driver will turn up with a helmet for you.
Uber has also partnered up with Thai Traffic Police to raise awareness of motorcycle safety, and will be donating helmets to young students and adults.
If you’re a first time Uber user, you’re eligible for two free UberMOTO rides. Just use the promo code UberMOTOBKK to get the two rides, worth up to THB100 each, before March 15.
