Toronto’s transit network will have to undergo major changes as it transitions to a new driver-assist technology in 2019.
Uber will have the final say in how those changes are implemented, and if they go ahead as planned, the ride-hailing service could become a fixture in the city’s transit system.
That’s despite the fact that Toronto is the first Canadian city to implement a driver-assisted system, according to the Toronto Parking Authority, and Uber has yet to officially test its service.
As a result, some Toronto councillors are calling for the city to revisit its policies on driver-only vehicles and ride-sharing platforms.
“It’s not the right thing to do,” said Councillor Maria Augimeri, who has pushed for Uber to be allowed to operate in the country.
Augimera also wants the city “to create a regulatory framework that is fair to ride-share services and ensure that there are clear rules in place so that people who are being charged a fee can get their money back.” “
I would like to see a process where the city is fully transparent, but also has the capacity to enforce these rules to protect riders.”
Augimera also wants the city “to create a regulatory framework that is fair to ride-share services and ensure that there are clear rules in place so that people who are being charged a fee can get their money back.”
In a statement, Uber Canada CEO and president Travis Kalanick said he welcomes a new regulatory framework and expects it will address safety concerns.
“The safety of our riders is of the utmost importance to us,” Kalanicks said.
“As part of our continued efforts to improve safety, we will continue to work with the city and the Taxi and Limousine Commission on a plan to implement new safety rules for ride-shares, and will provide any additional information that is needed.”
He said the city needs to “reconsider” the rules, which are already on the books.
Kalanickers said Uber’s driver-less vehicles are not “the most sophisticated” technology on the market, but the technology allows them to avoid human drivers and help reduce congestion.
“Drivers are required to be trained and supervised to ensure they’re fully licensed,” he said.
He added that Uber’s drivers are “trained, certified, insured, and insured by the province and the federal government.”
Uber has said it is willing to test its driver-as-a-service system in the U.S. and other cities, but only with a strict vetting process.