Uber taxi set for Edinburgh launch

The move also comes after bosses said that they were “blown away” with its reception in Glasgow following its launch there last month.

And Uber said more than 65,000 people in the capital had already opened the app ahead of today’s 16:00 launch.

The service, which allows passengers to hail a taxi using a mobile phone, has faced criticism from traditional taxi companies but won a London High Court ruling last month that decided Uber did not break the law by operating in the same way as meters used by more strictly regulated black cabs to calculate fares.

Authorities in Europe have also criticised Uber over safety issues but the California-based firm insists its drivers are safe and reliable, and that all are required to pass enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks.

Earlier this year, Edinburgh City Council granted Uber a licence to run a booking office from George Street, which is required by law for licensed taxis or private hire companies.

To use Uber, customers download an app that uses GPS technology to locate available drivers nearby and puts them in touch.

Uber has faced criticism from traditional taxi companies, who want to see greater regulation of private hire vehicles.

Despite the recent controversies, the California-based firm has insisted insists its drivers are safe and reliable, and that all are required to pass enhanced disclosure and barring service checks.

Max Lines, Uber’s general manager for UK expansion, said: “We have been blown away with the reception we received in Glasgow, so are really excited to be launching in Edinburgh today.

“Thousands of Scots have embraced Uber over the last few weeks and we hope to continue this success in the Scottish capital.

“In the last six months alone over 65,000 people in Edinburgh have opened the app, so we know there is a huge demand for the service in the city.

“At the push of a button, people will be able to get a ride which is convenient, safe and affordable.”

There are plans to expand the service to other towns and cities.