File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Uber Rollout

Uber plans B.C.-wide rollout — Kamloops included — in early 2025

Nov 15, 2024 | 6:30 AM

KAMLOOPS — The world’s largest ridesharing company will start its engines in Kamloops and throughout B.C. in the new year.

As of this week, Uber is recruiting drivers across the province. Once it reaches the right threshold — expected to be some time in early 2025 — it plans to open its popular app to riders.

“The number one factor for success for ridesharing is, first, finding drivers who have the appropriate qualifications,” Michael van Hemmen, general manager of mobility for Uber Canada, told Pattison Media. “Once that process has been completed, it’s about finding enough riders that those drivers are able to make money and that riders are able to get to where they need to go.”

The appropriate qualifications include holding the proper driver’s license and completing a criminal record check.

Uber launched in Greater Vancouver in 2020, expanding to Victoria and Kelowna last year. Van Hemmen says those who have used the service in other cities will see little change in Kamloops.

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“[Drivers] follow the same rules that apply in Vancouver, Victoria and Kelowna. The same requirements are in place,” he said. “We’re excited, early in the new year to be able to hopefully be in position with enough drivers that we can start to turn on the apps that riders will also be able to use to get around.”

Prospective drivers are asked to visit this site for more information.