Uber could soon start to offer chauffer services – as it has acquired Blacklane, an independent local chauffeur services booking platform.
Founded in Berlin, Germany in 2011, Blacklane connects guests worldwide with local chauffeur services via an app and web booking platform.
Today, Blacklane operates in more than 500 cities across more than 60 countries.
It has grown to be the chauffeur service of choice for travellers and executives of many of the world’s leading corporations.
Executive travel is a fast-growing segment of Uber’s business, driven by strong demand for planned, high-quality transport services.
Pre-booked Uber Reserve trips in particular have become one of the fastest growing parts of Uber’s mobility business.
The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals and other closing conditions.
The deal is expected to close by the end of 2026.
Uber’s new acquisition of Blacklane means the company could begin to offer chauffer services
After the transaction is complete, the acquisition of Blacklane will further accelerate Uber’s recently announced move into the chauffeur sector with Uber Elite.
It will support Uber’s ambition to deliver best-in-class service to more customers around the world.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said: ‘Premium travel is one of the most exciting growth areas of Uber’s business.
‘We want to offer the widest selection of options to meet our riders where they are: from the everyday commute to luxury rides.
‘We’re incredibly impressed by what Blacklane has built and we’re eager to work with them to amplify how we deliver truly exceptional service to more people in cities around the world.’
Dr Jens Wohltorf, founder and CEO of Blacklane, added: ‘Blacklane’s growth to date has been founded on consistently excellent service, wherever in the world our guests move.
‘Fifteen years after our vision to make premium travel frictionless, we are bringing luxury hospitality expertise to Uber as a leading player in mobility.
‘This partnership marks a significant milestone in Blacklane’s next chapter and is a powerful step-change in introducing our service to new markets globally.’
It comes after Uber introduced Uber Elite, designed for executives, frequent travellers and riders looking for a more elevated experience.
Every Elite trip is powered by commercially licensed professional chauffeurs, with new-model luxury vehicles – less than three years old – for a polished, high-touch experience from pickup to drop-off.
Riders can book through Uber Reserve, in the Uber app, and through our Uber for Business delegate booking feature – a perfect solution for busy riders who need help managing their travel schedules with support from an executive assistant.
Elite rides can be booked at least one hour in advance and up to 90 days ahead.
Plus, earlier this month Uber announced riders in Las Vegas can now be matched with an all-electric Motional IONIQ 5 robotaxi.
Initially, Motional robotaxis will feature a vehicle operator monitoring the road ahead from behind the steering wheel.
A fully driverless service – with no human operator in the vehicle – is expected to begin by the end of this year.
