Uber enters Newport market

NEWPORT – A Mercedes or BMW versus a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord – for just $5 more.

That’s what a two-mile ride in a luxury car from Uber would cost from Easton’s Beach to Bannister’s Wharf, according to the transportation app company, which recently launched a new, upscale service for Newport.

The two-mile ride would cost $10 in one of the luxury cars, $5 more than the same ride in a Camry or Accord. Besides the Mercedes C-Class or BMW 5-Series, riders also can choose from an Acura MDX or Toyota Avalon.

The company said it is offering riders an alternative to the traditional Uber service – UberX – in Newport, which debuted a year ago. Through UberX, riders may travel in a Camry, Accord or Nissan Altima.

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According to information from Uber, UberSelect is only available to Rhode Island riders in Newport. The Providence market has regular Uber service, including its low-cost UberX and UberXL, which seats at least six passengers.

Uber entered the Rhode Island market in 2013.

The General Assembly last year created a special joint legislation commission to study and analyze the impact of online-enabled applications or smartphones to connect passengers with drivers. The commission is expected to release its report this session.

Legislation was submitted in February that creates a separate category for these companies, and also requires that the companies cover an insurance gap if the driver’s own auto insurance policy excludes coverage. It also requires that drivers be permitted through the state Division of Public Utilities and Carriers with required background checks.

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