Daily Reports
The American VTC giant Uber is gearing up for a pivotal role in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This strategy was outlined in a recent press conference where Laureline Serieys, Uber's General Director in France, emphasized the company's commitment to a significantly larger investment than a typical summer. With the anticipation of a substantial influx of international tourists and increased reliance on the public transport network, Uber aims to offer its users new experiences and seamless travel options.
Although Uber's efforts to gain access for its drivers to the 185km of designated Olympic lanes were unsuccessful, the company managed to secure permissions for its vehicles to operate within the three security perimeters of the Olympic sites. Laureline Serieys mentioned that drivers would need to provide valid papers during inspections, which, at this stage, will be frequent but not systematic. To cater to the expected surge in demand, Uber has planned to attract more drivers to the French capital, with 90% of drivers expressing their intent to stay in Paris for the Games, compared to the usual 65% during the summer.
In addition to this, Uber is offering bonuses of up to several hundred euros to drivers from nearby cities like Lille where summer activities are less intensive, encouraging them to work in Paris during the event. The company will also issue incentives for drivers to cover critical zones, such as around the opening ceremony, to ensure effective distribution throughout the city. Furthermore, the platform’s GPS tool will be daily updated to accommodate traffic restrictions and road closures, ensuring efficient trip planning, particularly during significant events like marathons and the opening ceremony.
To attract more vehicles to key locations, Uber negotiated a reduction in the cost for drivers accessing professional airport parking lots, bringing down the annual fee from 290 euros to 70 euros. On the pricing front, Uber promises to maintain only a moderate increase of 10 to 15% despite the anticipated high demand. The company’s dynamic pricing model will be balanced by various promotions and discounts, including a permanent sale on UberX Share rides and a 50% reduction in prices for Uber Green, UberX Share, and Lime bikes during pollution peaks. Moreover, fares for trips to and from Paris airports and train stations will see a 10% reduction.
Uber's push for an enhanced user experience includes integrating photo guides in its app to assist customers in navigating Parisian train stations and airports to their pick-up spots easily. For people with reduced mobility, the company is amplifying its fleet to provide better service, further cementing its commitment to inclusivity through its partnership with the French Handisport Federation. In collaboration with the Red Cross, Uber is also offering 1,500 free trips and 3,000 at half price for volunteers working during the Games.
For those looking for unique experiences, Uber is launching 'Uber bubbles' and 'Uber cruise' services. The 'Uber bubbles' will offer a Tesla excursion to Épernay and Reims for champagne tasting and lunch, while the 'Uber cruise' will provide a free, electric boat tour on the Seine, operated in partnership with Click & Boat.
Uber's initiatives, though subject to the authorities’ directives, aim to showcase its service quality and potentially attract new users, especially from smaller provincial towns. Despite the uncertainties around the impact of the Games on Parisian traffic, Uber remains optimistic about managing congestion through these proactive measures.
- Heatwave, dense crowds in the metro, and temporary traffic interruptions are some challenges that tourists might face during the Olympic Games in Paris. Uber promises to address these issues by ensuring a sufficient number of air-conditioned vehicles. The company’s mobilization plan includes encouraging drivers from other regions with financial bonuses, ensuring a robust VTC service presence.
- Uber has worked closely with authorities to gain permissions for its drivers, especially in accessing security zones around Olympic sites. Special provisions have been made to facilitate the transport of people with disabilities within these high-security areas. As traffic conditions remain unpredictable, Uber has committed to adjusting its service dynamically to ensure reliability and efficiency for its users.
- In preparation for the increased demand, Uber has meticulously planned to integrate updates on street closures and traffic conditions into its internal GPS system, which will be accessible to its drivers. This preparation is crucial to help maintain reasonable travel times and avoid a significant spike in prices.
- As part of a broader strategy to remain accessible, Uber will offer various promotions throughout the Games. Apart from reducing the cost of UberX Share rides and supporting Red Cross volunteers with free and discounted trips, the company is also focused on minimizing the environmental impact through its Uber Green initiatives.
