Uber has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire UK technology company Autocab.
Autocab provides private hire and taxi operators with technology to run their business, including booking and dispatch software, and also connects them with trips through its iGo marketplace.
Through Autocab’s iGo marketplace, Uber will be able to connect riders in locations where Uber does not currently operate with local operators who choose to take their booking. In turn, operators should, said Uber, be able to expand their operations and offer more earnings opportunities to local drivers.
Uber said it will also explore providing drivers with additional revenue opportunities related to its platform for other services, such as delivery.
Post-acquisition, Autocab will remain independent with its own board focussed on providing technology to the taxi and private hire industry.
Autocab CEO Safa Alkateb said he believes Uber’s technology can help accelerate Autocab’s global ambition and the growth of its customers’ businesses. “Working with Uber we can scale up our ambitions, providing hundreds of thousands of additional trips for our customers, and help cement the place of licensed operators in their local community.”
