Uber has had a long and winding relationship with those looking for a ride. In 2019, it was denied a license to operate in London before being granted an 18 month license in September 2020. But earlier this year, the engine of controversy once again began to chug into action as it was revealed through leaked internal records that Uber had lobbied top politicians to support a bid to disrupt Europe's taxi industry to get access to the UK market.
If unethical business weren't enough, prices and wait times for Ubers also appear to be rising with many customers reporting unfairly cancelled rides and eye-watering surge costs. As a result, many of us are now looking for an ethical alternative to the taxi giant and we've compiled a list of all of your best options...
What are the alternatives to Uber?
1. Bolt
Bolt is available across 35 countries and 100 cities in Europe, Africa and West Asia. Formerly named Taxify, the company just announced that all European rides are 100% carbon neutral. Their app allows you to follow your journey and as well as cheaper prices, Bolt also promises to pay their drivers more. The Telegraph found that a journey from Wembley Stadium to Covent Garden would cost roughly between £20-£28 if travelling with Uber but with Bolt, that fair would drop down to a more affordable £11.20-£11.35.
2. Kapten
Kapten launched in London, with a controversial anti-Uber advert campaign that called out the ridesharing app for not paying it's VAT. But it's not just paying their taxes that makes this company a league above the rest, they also incentivise drivers to buy hybrid and electric cars - championing London's 'car-free-day' last September.
The French start-up was founded in 2012, and claims it's average fares are 20% cheaper than competitors. Even better? You know the exact price of the journey when booking, none of this between £4-£40 crap. With a loyalty programme for even cheaper rides, the app has proven popular and amassed 16,000 drivers since it's launch six months ago.
3. FREE NOW
Formerly MyTaxi, FREE NOWis available in London as well other cities in Europe. They use prices which are set by local regulations and have a tracking map similar to Uber’s. As well as giving you the cash or card option, FREE NOW will wait 2 and a half minutes outside for you for no charge. They’re always offering promotions, and until 1st October, the majority of journeys have 50% off. They aim to 'keep you out of the cold and rain- and into safe, reliable cabs.'
4. London Lady Chauffeurs
London Lady Chauffeurs are part of Riverside Cars based in London. The idea came about after Riverside Cars had several female passengers express their worries over travelling with a male driver, especially at night. London Lady Chauffeurs is run by women, with women drivers, exclusively for women (they actually get to turn men down). They believe that their customers are 'driven by professionally trained lady chauffeurs for their comfort and safety'. There are several other female-only transport services across the UK, including Ladies Only Travel and Pink Ladies - who even help you unpack your shopping.
5. Kabbee
Although only available in London, Kabbee is your incredibly affordable alternative to Uber. The company works with over 70 different cab companies in London and offer you a taxi price comparison service. With set rates and hundreds of taxis to compare Kabbee makes your journey a lot cheaper, in fact, they aim to be 65% cheaper than a black cab. You also have the ability to track your journey, and customers leave reviews on their journey.
Read More:
These Stories About Uber Might Make You Want To Think Twice About Travelling Alone
Uber Drive Who Killed Six People Says the Uber App 'Took Over His Whole Body'