UberX takes aim at regular taxi fares

Weeks before Bangkok faces a (modest) increase in taxi fares, limo service Uber has launched its low-fare, budget service.

The UberX service launched last week in limited areas with a lower starting fare of THB25 and per-kilometer rate.

Six months after its high-end UberBlack service started in the capital, the US company’s UberX is a more affordable alternative for commuters who aren’t looking for a fancy ride.

While passengers would be picked up by a professional driver in a Camry or Mercedes-Benz when using UberBlack, UberX service is offered by amateur drivers who own something like a Honda City and Toyota Altis. All drivers are registered with Uber.

The fare of UberX starts at THB25 and increases by THB4.5 per kilometer. Bangkok’s price structure currently starts THB35 and increases by THB5 – THB8.5 for each kilometer.

The service is available at the airports, central downtown areas down through Bang Na. Live in Lat Phrao? Forget about it.