Step Out In Uber Style

Sizzling hot startup, Uber, is now in Delhi to offer its point-to-point car service - with a tap on an app.  Download the Uber app on Android, iOS or BlackBerry, and sign up, completing your brief profile. You can also use m.uber.com if you don't use these phones.

Once in, you can just move a pin on a map to choose your pick up and drop point. The fare will show up and your car will turn up in 15 minutes. But this isn't your everyday rattletrap. You get to ride in luxury in an Audi, Accord, Camry or other cool cars at only a little more than the price of ordinary cabs. The car in no way looks like a cab or has any branding on it, so it's like your own.

The Uber app also shows up the driver's photograph, name, and contact. You can track the car real time as it makes its way to you and when you're on your way, they can send your ETA to someone who's expecting you or keeping an eye on you. Particularly nice for women who need a safe ride someplace or for anyone who plans on going for a party and doesn't want to drive.

The base fare in Delhi (Uber is also available in Bangalore and will make its way to other cities) The fare is based on both distance and time. Rs 70 is the base fare, and then it's Rs 20/km and Rs 2 per minute.

Uber happens to be powered by Google  - it funds the service which is now in 50 cities around the world.

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Twitter: @malabhargava