Uber rolls out motorcycle service global pilot in Bangkok

• uberMOTO aims to help commuters save time and money, company says
• Partners with Thai Traffic Police and HAC to raise awareness of motorcycle safety

 
US ride-sharing giant Uber Technologies Inc has announced the launch of its new UberMOTO service as a pilot in Bangkok starting today (Feb 24), the first time it is testing the service anywhere in the world.
 
The service has been specifically developed for cities in emerging markets, allowing people looking for short rides – for example, to and from public transport services like the subway – to book a ride on a motorcycle at the push of a button, Uber said in a statement.
 
Starting today, Uber riders in Bangkok will see the new ‘UberMOTO’ option when they open their app. The on-demand motorbike service will launch in Sathorn, Siam, and Silom, offering thousands of people in Bangkok quick and convenient motorcycle connections around town, it added.
 
Those who are interested in becoming a partner can find more information at www.uberthai.com.
 
“Motorcycles are part of the commuting culture in Thailand,” said Uber’s head of Asia Expansion Douglas Ma.
 
“With UberMOTO, we’re thrilled to introduce a product that resonates with the Thai people, and which provides another easy and affordable option for short trips around town while creating tens of thousands of flexible work opportunities for Thais,” he added.
 
Bangkok was chosen as the first city globally for this pilot since moto-taxis are already part of the transportation fabric in Thailand, Uber said in its statement.
 
The launch comes just weeks after cash payments were rolled out in Thailand, ensuring more people in Bangkok now have access to Uber’s technology, it added.
 
To mark the launch, Uber said it is partnering with the Thai Traffic Police and Head Awareness Club (HAC) to raise awareness about the importance of motorcycle safety and the vital role helmets play in saving lives.
 
As part of this joint effort, Uber will be donating helmets to young students and adults with the help of Thai Traffic Police and HAC through various community outreach and education initiatives in the coming weeks, it said.
 

 
“The lives of millions of children are at risk every day because of low awareness,” said Police Colonel Sukit Arunlarktawin of the Thai Traffic Police.
 
“We are excited to partner with Uber and HAC to raise awareness about the importance of safety to make the roads safer for everyone in Thailand,” he added.
 
HAC manager Surasit Silapangam added, “More than half of adults don’t wear helmets when they are on a motorbike, and the number is even more worrying when it comes to children.
 
“Many people believe that a short trip won’t be dangerous, but without a helmet, every meter is a big risk. Helmets save lives,” he said.
 
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