What riders in Cranbrook may see when they open the Uber app. | Source: Haven Thibert | PML
One of the largest ridesharing platforms worldwide is now available throughout British Columbia, but riders in the East Kootenay may be disappointed to find an unwelcoming message saying, “No rides available.”
On Wednesday, May 28, Uber Canada officially expanded its operations to all five transportation regions in B.C.
“As we head into a busy summer season, we are excited to bring rideshare to more British Columbians. Residents and visitors alike now have a safe, affordable, and reliable option to help get them where they need to go, when they need to,” said Michael van Hemmen, general manager of Uber Canada. “And for those with a safe driving record, a flexible opportunity to earn money on their own time.”
But there’s a catch– rides will only be available if drivers actively sign up to do trips.
“Ride availability may vary depending on the number of drivers in your area, but we’re growing every day and always looking for more to join the road,” wrote Uber Canada.
The ride-share giant launched in the Metro Vancouver area in 2020 before expanding to Victoria, Kelowna and the Fraser Valley in 2023, when Vancouver-based platform ReRyde transferred its licence to operate in all regions.
Source: B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
A decision from the Passenger Transportation Board (PTB) stated: “Uber drivers are private contractors who choose their own hours. It is up to Uber and its drivers or potential drivers to begin operations in approved areas.”
Interested drivers can sign up online through Uber, though cities near the mainland still dominate the website’s B.C. list at the time of writing.
Source: Uber Canada
Between 2020 and 2023, Uber Canada data shows a total economic impact of $1.1 billion from both its ride and food delivery products.
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