Uber Transit has announced an update to the expanded and enhanced Wildcab program, aiming to improve transportation options for students by offering safer and more reliable late-night ride services. The announcement was made in a news release on January 2, 2025.
According to Uber Transit, since its relaunch in 2022, Wildcab has grown from a small weekend service to an on-demand transportation program covering 284 square miles in Fayette County. In 2023, the University of Kentucky (UK) transitioned to Uber Vouchers, which enabled precise subsidy limits, defined service hours, and direct voucher distribution. This change resulted in a 97% increase in riders, an 83% rise in trip fulfillment, and over 400 weekly trips. In response to this growth, UK expanded subsidies by 60%, extended service hours, and broadened coverage. In 2024, Wildcab provided 14,523 rides with Fall semester trips up by 29% from the previous semester. The average wait time was reported as eight minutes with a $2.50 co-pay.
"Wildcab Vouchers is the next evolution of our student late-night transportation program. We’re thrilled about the opportunity to expand the reach and responsiveness of Wildcab by leveraging Uber’s vast network of drivers to ensure that reliable transportation is available to our students when it’s needed most," said Lance Broeking, director of UK Transportation Services.
Uber Transit offers customized on-demand transportation solutions for colleges and universities by providing subsidized rides for students, faculty, and staff. Their services include late-night rides, meals programs, campus accessibility initiatives, guaranteed rides home, alternatives to driving under the influence (DUI), and transportation for events and faculty members. According to Uber Transit, safety is prioritized through background checks and in-app features such as Verify My Ride and Emergency Assistance.
The company collaborates with public transit agencies to enhance community mobility through technology and service solutions. It connects riders to Uber for first- and last-mile programs as well as during late-night rides or service disruptions. Agencies have the option to integrate Uber’s Application Programming Interface (API) into their apps for seamless ride booking experiences. Additionally, Uber offers customizable programs including ride subsidies and centralized scheduling tailored to meet community needs. As said on its website, over 80 transit agencies worldwide utilize Uber Transit’s services.