The new battles for taxi service in Merida are no longer fought in the streets, as was the case until a few months ago, but now have moved to mobile phone applications, where Yucatecan companies have begun to dabble in a practically virgin market.
The announcement of the Uber entry to Merida put the issue on the table, although a few months ago Ryde & Go applications such as phones were circulating in Merida.
And the United Front of Workers of Volante (FUTV) now have a mobile app called “Mi Taxi Yucatan,” designed for booking nearby cabs.
Ryde & Go, Technological application of company Ideas & Applications, will be officially launched this Thursday morning in Meridano known hotel.
Its director, Alberto Sarabia Solis, said the company “has been making noise” for a few months, but formally began operations on January 15 and said that they have done “quite well.”
“People have responded well to us, we have nearly 9,000 downloads and more and more customers are added and more people who want to work with us offering service with their cars,” he said.
Sarabia Solis, who belonged to FUTV and claims to know very well the service of car rental in Merida, reported that their drivers have to meet a series of requirements, including criminal background checks and drug testing.
Their vehicles must be in good condition and undergo regularly performed inspections and maintenance.
There are three categories of Ryde car: economic (subcompact cars), executive and premier.
They have an agreement with bars and other night entertainment centers, so that customers are not exposed to accidents or be detained at checkpoints breathalyzer.
Only accept bank card payments and fees charged 20 percent is for Ryde & Go and 80 percent for the driver.
As for rates, Solis said Sarabia lower than those of FUTV and taxi meters, and also have the bonus that is made by mobile phone and a quality service is provided.
“When the driver reaches the customer will seek opens the door, it helps you get on and if you do not have to cross word with the driver, as he already knows where to take it,” he said.
Asked if applications like Ryde & Go or Uber mean the disappearance of unions, Sarabia Solis considered that this will not happen for now, because there are still people who do not use applications such as people older or rural communities that reach the city.