#ProTips – How does Dynamic (or Surge) Pricing work?

What is Dynamic Pricing?

Dynamic pricing is an automated system based on the simple principles of supply and demand. When rider demand is higher than driver partners on the road, pricing will automatically increase. Higher pricing encourages more drivers on to the system when you need them most and ensures those who need a ride won’t be left stranded. Prices automatically return to normal as soon as there are enough cars available on the road.

**Remember, as a technology company, driver partners use our platform and decide when and how long they work. These flexible work hours mean we can’t control how many cars are on the road at any given time.

How Does Dynamic Pricing Maximize the Number of Uber Rides?

We are able to get a far greater number of driver partners on the system when Dynamic Pricing is in effect – it’s basic economics. Higher prices encourages more supply to come online. It gets some driver partners out to work early mornings, weekends, and during holidays. It keeps other driver partners from going to alternatives like renting their car out for the night, or trying their luck at hustling rides on the street. Higher prices means more cars, means more rides, means more people getting around the city efficiently and safely.

Avoid Dynamic Pricing?

No surprises when you estimate your fare. Surprises aren’t for everyone. That’s why we’ll always notify you in BIG, BOLD print if dynamic pricing is in effect and ask you to manually type in the higher multiple before you can request a ride. Enter your drop off location and tap “Fare Quote” to get an estimate of the cost of your ride.

Notify Me if Dynamic Pricing Ends

We also offer Uber riders in Kenya a feature to be notified if dynamic pricing at your location ends within 30 minutes

HOW IT WORKS

1. Tap the NOTIFY ME IF DYNAMIC PRICING ENDS button

2. Confirm that you’d like us to send you a Push Notification if dynamic pricing drops

3. Stick around or start saying your goodbyes; the choice is yours

We know the whole reason you use Uber is that you’ve got places to go and people to see. We’ll stay true to our pledge to get you the fastest ride available, and sometimes that will require dynamic pricing to get more driver partners on the road. But at those times when your schedule is flexible, you can hold out for a ride that’s as affordable as it is reliable.

Ride on!

Uber Kenya Team