Taxi App Uber Goes Live in Edinburgh
Taxi app Uber is launching in Edinburgh after bosses were "blown away'' with its reception in Glasgow.
The company said there is "huge demand'' for the service, with more than 65,000 people in the capital already opening the app.
Customers have to download and create an account with the app, which then allows them to book, track and pay for journeys.
The app, which launches in Edinburgh from 4pm today (Fri), has faced criticism from traditional taxi companies but won a London High Court ruling last month that decided Uber did not break the law by operating in the same way as meters used by more strictly regulated black cabs to calculate fares.
Authorities in Europe have also criticised Uber over safety issues but the California-based firm insists its drivers are safe and reliable, and that all are required to pass enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks.
Earlier this year, Edinburgh Council granted Uber a licence to run a booking office from George Street, which is required by law for licensed taxis or private hire companies.
There are also plans to expand the service to Aberdeen and other Scottish towns and cities.
Uber said a journey from Edinburgh Airport to the Balmoral Hotel would cost about £16 while a trip from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Yacht Britannia around £8.25.
Max Lines, Uber's general manager for UK expansion, said: "We have been blown away with the reception we received in Glasgow, so are really excited to be launching in Edinburgh today.
"Thousands of Scots have embraced Uber over the last few weeks and we hope to continue this success in the Scottish capital.
"In the last six months alone over 65,000 people in Edinburgh have opened the app, so we know there is a huge demand for the service in the city.
"At the push of a button, people will be able to get a ride which is convenient, safe and affordable. Uber also enables professional drivers the opportunity to partner with us and become their own bosses - choosing when and where they work.''
The service already operates in a number of UK cities including Glasgow, London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Newcastle.