Uber Auto Moves to Only Cash Option for Payments.

Uber Auto Shifts to Cash-Only Payments

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: February 19, 2025

Summary: Uber customers can only opt for cash payments with no use of promotions.

Uber has established a cash-only payment approach across India. The company's most recent transformation is to a subscription model, sometimes known as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). Users had diverse reactions; see here.

A major move from a commission-based system to a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) subscription model has been announced by ride-hailing behemoth Uber for its auto drivers in India. As part of this change, starting on February 18, all car rides reserved through the Uber app will only accept cash.

Users were notified of the change via an Uber app notification. The goal of this modification is to maintain Uber's position as a market leader. According to an Uber representative, "We have chosen to align our approach accordingly to avoid being at a competitive disadvantage, given the industry's shift towards a subscription-based model for drivers."

For drivers, ride-hailing services like Rapido and others have already introduced comparable subscription-based services. Instead of receiving a commission for each journey, drivers under this model pay a set price to access the platform.

In a blog post explaining the change, Uber made it clear that its only responsibility is to link drivers and passengers; the service runs apart from the business.

The company stated, "Uber is making a major shift with its new Auto model, moving towards a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) approach. Here’s what’s different… Uber will connect you with nearby drivers, but the service itself is independent of Uber.”

The company also made it clear that drivers would not be subject to trip-level commissions. And riders will no longer be charged by Uber for cancellations. Although Uber will recommend a fare for a ride, the driver and the passenger will ultimately determine the exact amount.

The change represents a major shift from Uber's customary commission-based business model and is indicative of a wider trend in the ride-hailing industry as businesses are looking into different revenue streams.

Both drivers and passengers are going to be affected by the change, which would change Uber's direct engagement in transactions and allow for more flexibility in rate negotiating.

The notification by Uber