Rideshare company Uride launches in Vernon today

There's a new way to get around Vernon, starting this afternoon.

Uride has officially come to the North Okanagan.

The Canadian rideshare company officially launches at 3 p.m.

As part of the launch, Uride is offering $5 off all rides until Feb. 5 with the promo code VERNON5. In addition, Uride is also giving away $250 cash to one lucky customer.

“We have an incredible team of drivers who are fully committed to preventing impaired driving and providing the people of Vernon with a safe, reliable and affordable transportation option”, says Ravi Dhami, Western Canada operations manager for Uride.

One of those drivers is Allan Pereira, who'll pick you up in his fully loaded Land Rover.

“The advantages are we have quicker pick-up times, we are generally a bit cheaper than the cabs, we are reliable transportation. You know someone is coming when you book a ride. You are not going to wait hours for a ride,” says Pereira.

“The cars are generally in better condition, the drivers are personable.”

Pereira says Uride started slowly in Kelowna last spring, but businesses is now booming.

Uride also operates in Kamloops, Prince George, and Nanaimo.

Pereira says there is a demand for the service in the Okanagan, and he sees nothing but good things on the horizon.

Booking a Uride is a simple process.

To get a ride, download the Uride iOS or Android app and create an account, enter a destination, and a driver will arrive shortly.

To download the app, apply or to learn more about Uride, click here.

To become a Uride driver, you must have a class four licence as well as undergo a criminal record check.