Uber is a ride-hailing company that offers the Uber mobile app, which you can use to submit a trip request that is automatically sent to an Uber driver near to you, alerting the driver to your location. The accepting Uber driver will then come and pick you up and drive you to your requested destination.
Here Are The List Of Uber Services In South Africa
If you’re reading this, we imagine you’ve already taken a ride with Uber in South Africa, but do you know what different types of Uber rides are available?
If you’re not sure what the difference between UberX and UberXL is, then don’t worry. We’ve put together this brief guide to help you get to know the different Uber car types available in SA a bit better
UberX
It’s a ride that needs no introduction: our flagship service, uberX, offers easy everyday rides at everyday rates, transporting and advancing communities in cities across South Africa. Whether you’re coming home from work or heading out with friends, uberX cars are the go-to option for a quick, affordable ride across town. The cars on the uberX vehicle list are typically comfortable Toyota Corollas and seat up to four passengers – enough space for co-workers, friends or family.
UberBLACK
There’s traveling and then there’s traveling in style. Of all the types of Uber ride available, UberBLACK journeys definitely fall into the second category. With high-end cars, Uber’s premium experience is perfect for those occasions when you want to make an entrance or when you’ve got someone to impress. There’s even space for up to four riders in an UberBLACK, so you can share the ride.
UberXL and UberVAN
When you’re in charge of getting everyone organized for a big trip, the last thing you want is for the ride to arrive without enough space for everyone’s luggage. That’s where our supersized options come in, with uberXL in Cape Town and uber VAN in Johannesburg. With a minimum of 6 seats and extra space in the boot, uberXL and uberVAN are a quality, low-cost option for big groups to travel together with ease. The more the merrier!
Uber ASSIST
We’re making Cape Town and Johannesburg more accessible with Uber ASSIST, our specialized service for senior riders and riders with access needs. With Uber ASSIST, your driver-partner will be specifically trained to assist riders when getting into a ride, and can accommodate folding wheelchairs, walkers and service animals. Requesting a specialized type of Uber ride couldn’t be easier, just swipe up after you’ve put your destination into the app to select one a different ride. When you need assistance getting around these cities, we’re here to help.
UberGO
If you’re heading to the beach in Port Elizabeth, UberGO is the best way to get their quickly and cheaply. UberGO cars provide short-haul rides in standard hatchbacks across city centres, making for a super low-cost service—even cheaper than UberX! It’s perfect for when you have a quick errand to run but don’t want to waste time walking across town, or even for the daily commute to the office.
Now you know the differences between Uber car types in South Africa, take a moment to weigh up your options next time you’re requesting a ride—whether you’re looking for a ride that’s large, affordable or stylish, there’s an Uber car in South Africa to suit your needs.
Budget Uber service now available across South Africa
Uber South Africa has announced its budget e-hailing ride service UberNam has been renamed to UberGo and is now available nationwide.
“We are excited to announce that UberGo, a low-cost product available in Port Elizabeth since 2025, has become a permanent option across South Africa,” the company stated.
“We have therefore decided to change the name of UberNam to UberGo, to follow Uber global standards,” the company stated.
Uber said that the product’s previous name had also led to confusion regarding another ride-sharing product UberPool, which is not yet available in South Africa.
Starting from Monday 22 February, South African users will see the UberGo option instead of UberNam when they open the Uber app.
The service will be run alongside Uber’s current ride-hailing products – the standard UberX service, UberVan, and its luxury UberBlack offering.
Smaller cars mean better prices
MyBroadband previously compared the UberNam service with Bolt’s own affordable e-hailing option which also carries the “Go” name.
The latter was found to be more affordable, although both were substantially cheaper than their standard services.
UberGo drivers use smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, which allow riders to get better prices than on the standard service.
According to Uber’s vehicle requirements page, this includes a number of 5-door hatchback models stretching back to 2013, as well as 4-door sedan models going back to 2011.
The list of accepted hatchbacks includes the Ford Figo, VW Polo and Polo Vivo, Toyota Yaris and Etios, Suzuki Dzire and Celeria, Mazda 3, Kia Picanto, Nissan Micra, as well as the Hyundai i10 and i20.
The Renault Kwid and Datsun Go are specifically excluded, likely due to their low safety ratings.
“Riders and drivers can expect the same door-to-door safety features such as an in-app emergency button, Injury Protection, 24/7 support, including driver background checks and screenings,” Uber said.
“We remain committed to delivering more affordable options with the same safety standards while unlocking further earning opportunities for driver-partners across South Africa,” an Uber spokesperson added.
Is Uber available in South Africa?
Riding sharing app Uber says it will expand to 21 smaller cities and towns across South Africa, taking its service to 40 cities in all nine provinces.
How much does Uber take from drivers in South Africa?
Bolt takes a flat commission of 20% on all fares, while Uber charges 20%, 22.5%, or 25% depending on a driver’s status in its tiered service fee loyalty programme. Both platforms also charge a 4% booking fee. It should be noted that fares can vary depending on city.
How do I contact Uber South Africa?
24/7 phone support
Can’t access the Uber app? If you’re a driver looking to get in touch, please dial 0800172957. Riders can access the support line by dialling 0800172956.
Which cities does Uber operate in South Africa?
Riders will be able to request a ride in Polokwane, Cape West Coast (Vredenburg, Saldanha, Langebaan), Mbombela (previously Nelspruit), Newcastle, Mthatha, Thohoyandou, Upington, Margate, Richards Bay, Welkom, Phuthaditjhaba, Ermelo, Queenstown, Garden Route (Mossel Bay, George, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay), Kimberley,
How much does Uber charge per km South Africa?
What does this mean?
| Johannesburg & Pretoria | Cape Town | |
|---|---|---|
| uberX | Was: R7,50/Km Now: R8/Km | Was: R7/Km Now: R7,50/Km |
| uberXL | Was: R7/Km Now: R7,50/Km |