Uber has dismissed claims that vehicles older than three years will be removed from its platform following the introduction of new rules for previously unregistered vehicles.
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The company clarified that the policy, which took effect in 2022, only applies to new vehicle registrations. Under this policy, any vehicle joining Uber for the first time must be from the year 2022 or newer. However, this has led to a misunderstanding, with some interpreting the rule to mean that existing vehicles on the platform older than three years will be phased out, which is not accurate.
Cassie Jaganyi, an Uber spokeswoman, addressed the confusion: “Recent media coverage regarding a three-year vehicle age policy for drivers on Uber in South Africa has caused some confusion due to its inaccuracy. While some have understood the policy to mean that all drivers on the platform must drive cars younger than three years old, that is not the case. It applies only to new drivers signing up to the platform.”
Jaganyi further explained that once drivers are registered on the platform, they are permitted to use their registered vehicle for up to eight years, consistent with Uber’s international terms and conditions. “There is no expectation that drivers replace their vehicle on the Uber platform every three years,” she said.
The initiative to include only the newest vehicles on the platform aims to leverage the enhanced security features that newer cars typically offer, which contributes to a safer experience for both riders and drivers. According to Uber, newer vehicles also provide a cleaner and more comfortable ride for passengers.
“We have a number of processes in place to help contribute to everyone’s safety, and vehicle age plays a role in that,” Jaganyi added. “This guideline not only helps contribute to the safety of both riders and drivers but also enhances the quality of the vehicles available on the platform.”
