Richmond, Va.-based technology startup UZURV (yoo-zurv) made its Reservation Services app available in the Chatanooga market this week. Both the rider and driver versions of the UZURV app are available for free and easy download in the Apple and Google Play stores. The UZURV app enhances the Uber and Lyft experience by allowing riders to schedule advanced reservations with the driver of their choice.
This is especially important in markets where the ride-sharing drivers are scarce. An advanced reservation brings the drivers to the riders when they need them.
Using UZURV, riders can filter on-demand drivers by market, vehicle type, amenities and special services to build a list of Favorite Drivers best capable of meeting their transportation needs. They then have the option of sending reservation requests to their saved list of Favorite Drivers or to a general feed visible to all drivers. Riders can then view interested drivers’ profiles and make a selection, confirming the reservation.
UZURV was founded by two Richmond Uber Partners -- CEO and Founder Matt Donlon and VP of Operations, Harold Frans -- who witnessed first-hand the need for a reservation system for on-demand travel and the desire on the part of riders to be able to request specific drivers again and again. They weren’t looking to create another Transportation Network Company (TNC) like Uber or Lyft. Instead they would create the first Reservation Network Company (RNC) and develop an app to handle the reservation piece only to fill the gaps in an otherwise successful and effective on-demand system.
“There are a lot of benefits to using the UZURV app for both drivers and riders,” said Donlon. “Drivers can build their independent contractor businesses by attracting repeat customers and riders have the peace of mind knowing their drivers will be where they need them, when they need them -- even those living in the outskirts where Uber would not otherwise be a dependable option. The greatest benefit, though, is that UZURV allows riders to make meaningful connections with drivers who are able to meet their unique needs, whatever that may be, in a way that benefits both parties.”
UZURV charges a modest service fee, currently discounted to 99 cents, for riders and drivers to make or accept reservations.
UZURV service is currently available in 56 markets across the United States, for the full list, visit uzurv.com/cities