Don’t have a car, want a car or need a car? As absurd as the last one may sound, it may well be possible to survive, if not thrive, without a car in San Diego County. Over the past few years, a number of alternative transport companies (also called “transportation network companies or TNCs) have driven into San Diego: Lyft, and UberX. Each have pros and cons. Here’s a quick synopsis:
Lyft
Pros: Cars have pink mustaches.
Can access cars using smart phone app
Can track progress of the e-hail in real time.
Charged a standard minimum charge but can tip the drivers if you like the service.
Covers most of central San Diego City
Cons: Prices vary, depending upon time of day that the car is hailed.
Not cheap for long-distance trips. Charge $1.75 per mile and $.25 per minute. Also has pickup and cancellation fees.
UberX
Pros: Cars are large (often are black towncars)
Can be picked up after requesting a car.
Covers most all of San Diego County. Uber expanded to San Diego in the summer of 2012, its 10th U.S. city at the time
Cons: Possibly more expensive than taxis. There are three service levels, based on the driver’s car: a typical sedan, a town car or a large SUV, like an Escalade. The base fares range from $2.50 to $15, with per-mile or per-minute charges tacked on top, just like a taxi.Base fares range from $2.50 to $15, with per-mile or per-minute charges tacked on top, just like a taxi. Also has cancellation fees and minimum fares.
Prices vary, depending upon time of day that the car is hailed.
Drivers are not professional; often are self-selected based upon minimum requirements that you are over 23, own a working four-door car made after 2000, and have a smartphone.