Great post. I’d say the thing that dooms Uber (or any other ridesharing company) is zero barrier to entry and a margin that’s razor thin. As an Austinite who’s city ran off the major providers, we have two to three copycats who observe the fingerprint laws put in place. The apps themselves are fairly garbage and…

I started preferring Lyft for the simple fact I could tip within the app.

I’m not going to use Uber anymore because the CEO is a piece of garbage. Period.

NB: I have no affiliation with Uber, other than being Uber’s frequent and generally satisfied customer.

They are extremely popular because they are cheap. They are not making a profit because they are cheap. if I sell something for half the price than other do, my products/services are likely to be very popular. But I also will li,key not be able to make a profit, because other prices were likely higher for a reason.

“They either need to replace drivers with automation, or monopolize the market significantly enough to set profitable rates.”

“How could Uber drivers possibly be employees if they are using their own cars and working their own hours?”

“How could Uber drivers possibly be employees if they are using their own cars and working their own hours?”

I see where you’re coming from but there are a couple of points that need mentioning.

This is the sticking point for me. I know a lot of people who have gotten through tough times, layoffs and whatever by driving for Union Cab here in Madison. The hours are reasonably flexible, they pay is solid and they offer benefits like health insurance. And as cool as uber is, and as convenient, I know I’m just…

...and at that point, they won’t be cheaper than the taxis they are trying to drive (heh) out of business anymore.

If your goal is to ultimately work “crazy hours” and get paid pennies, and that “the shittier parts of Brazil or Nigeria” is where the bar should be set for worker protections all so some of the most grating people on the planet can be billionaires, well brother, I hope you achieve it.

It’s a ridesharing service

“We’re going to charge you for making us wait.”