Uber’s Temporary Fuel Adjustment
#15
Thank you, Uber! ❤️
I'm thrilled that Uber took action on the increasing fuel costs!
The average price of fuel has increased at least 33% in the US. And it doesn’t look to stop in the near future. It’s reported that the war in Ukraine and the Russian oil bans will keep oil over $120 per barrel for the foreseeable future.
Last night Uber shared a message that they are charging passengers a fuel surcharge to reimburse drivers. Lyft and other gig economy apps have yet to make their announcements.
Uber Temporary Fuel Reimbursement Details
It starts March 16th.
You will be reimbursed $0.35 to $0.55 per trip depending on market and type of trip.
It’s fully paid by the consumer and passed directly to the driver.
You will get the reimbursement regardless of vehicle type or fare.
It will lasts at least 60 days.
In my market, I will be getting $0.55 per trip for my UberX. And because I take short trips with an average of 69mpg, I'll make $42.00 extra per week. In fact, gas prices will have to go to $6.75 per gallon before Uber's Temporary Trip Reimbursement doesn't cover my increased fuel costs.
This is Uber's way of furthering their objective of getting drivers to take shorter trips and get EV cars. Shorter trips mean more trips, which means more $0.55 reimbursements. And their notice states that it doesn't matter what your vehicle is, so a Dodge Caravan getting 20mpg will get paid the same as a Tesla, not even using gas.
Use this Google Sheet to make your own comparisons.
Taking short trips the Tesla EV will make money and a Prius will basically have all the weekly gas prices covered. Whereas a Dodge Caravan taking long trips but only getting 30 mpg will not see any significant differences in their weekly gas costs. Worse, Uber’s Temporary Fuel Adjustment is set for 60 days, and gas prices will continue to increase, maybe up to $5.00 a gallon!
Taking shorter trips pays better. You'll be able to accomplish quests quicker, and you can get more temporary trip reimbursements.