This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The ride-hailing firm Uber is offering a new luxury service in Utah with vehicles such as Lincoln Town Cars or large SUVs.
It launched UberBLACK and UberSUV on Thursday, with skiing gold medalist Joss Christensen taking the first ride in Park City.
Uber — and similar companies such as Lyft and Blacklane — operate mobile apps to connect consumers with drivers who own their own cars. Consumers using smart phones can see who the driver would be, ratings given to them by other riders and the cost of the trip. Payments are handled through smart phones.
Uber spokesman Michael Amodeo, also said UberBLACK and UberSUV contract with commercially licensed partners, who have the required badging and licensing needed to legally operate at Salt Lake City International Airport.
Controversy has arisen over whether regular Uber and Lyft drivers have such required licensing. The city and taxi companies have contended that most of them do not — so they risk fines if caught.
Blacklane, however, also contracts with off-duty limousine drivers and others who already work out of the airport — which the city has said makes it believe that company meets all of the requirements for operating at the airport.
The new service allowing luxury rides is more expensive than basic UberX and UberXL options.
A company blog estimates the cost between Salt Lake City International Airport and downtown Salt Lake City at $30 to $40 for UberBLACK, and between $45 and $55 for UberSUV.
It estimates prices between the airport and Park City at $130 to $170 for UberBlack, and $160 to $200 for UberSUV.