Uber says you can request champagne in its new Elite rides. Here's how the service works

"Uber announced Thursday it will launch a chauffeur ride option-Uber Elite-that will offer a "luxury ride experience" targeting executives and other frequent travelers. Uber Elite will become the rideshare operator's most expensive option, and will be offered on an invite-only basis for current Uber Black and Uber for Business clients in San Francisco and Los Angeles, followed soon by New York."

"The premium pricing is seemingly justified by a premium experience: Uber Elite will partner with fleet companies that employ professional chauffeurs driving luxury vehicles. In addition to the option to be met at baggage claim by the chauffeur, riders can expect complimentary amenities that some Uber drivers already offer in quest of a 5-star rating: Chargers, bottled water, mints, and hand-sanitizing towelettes."

"An Uber Elite customer could request a ride from the San Francisco International Airport to the city's Union Square, with an option for a meet and greet at baggage claim, for a whopping $177.95 for the roughly 13-mile journey. That's more than three times the cost of an UberX, a standard ride-alone option, while the city's BART system costs only $11.80 for that same journey."

Uber introduced Uber Elite, a new luxury chauffeur service designed for high-end customers including executives and frequent business travelers. Available initially in San Francisco and Los Angeles with expansion to New York, the service operates on an invite-only basis for existing Uber Black and Uber for Business clients. Uber Elite partners with professional fleet companies employing trained chauffeurs driving luxury vehicles. The service includes premium amenities such as complimentary chargers, bottled water, mints, and hand sanitizer, plus options for special requests like champagne. A notable advantage is access to dedicated 24/7 phone support. Pricing is substantially higher than standard options, with example fares exceeding $177 for airport transfers, more than triple the cost of UberX rides.

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