SWFL taxis challenge Uber, launch new smartphone app

LEE COUNTY, Fla. – A new smartphone app is now available for Southwest Floridians that is in direct competition with Uber.

“We’ve always tried to stay on the cutting edge of technology, and this is something that we can newly offer to our customers that is just that,” said Michael Griffin, owner of Southwest Florida Transportation Group, which runs the areas largest fleet of taxi cabs.

With the emergence of Uber, Griffin’s company is trying to level the playing field with its own  app, just launched.

“You don’t have to talk to anybody, just push the button and a car comes to you,” Griffin told WINK News.

Months in the making, the brand new “275 Taxi” app is exclusive to Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties. It works similar to the Uber app; you start by entering your name, phone number and email address. A map pops up showing all of the available taxis in your area. You set your pickup location, then your destination, and it brings up your estimated fare.

“We actually have the option of paying with cash or credit card on the app, unlike Uber,” said Griffin.

Griffin says rates won’t change, but the app will help speed up response time, getting cabs to riders quicker.

We showed the new app to local Uber driver Richard Maas, who welcomes the competition.

“Competition breeds innovation, so congratulations to them to get themselves in line with what the riders are demanding out there. Let the best man win,” said Maas.

The app can be downloaded right now for free on both iPhones and Androids. Just search “275 taxi” in the App Store.