Most Edmontonians support Uber, Nanos Research poll suggests

A majority of Edmontonians support "ride-sharing," says a Nanos Research survey released Monday.

The review, conducted for the Uber company, also says a large portion of those polled want the option to choose premium pricing for rides.

"It's great to see how popular ride sharing has become in Edmonton, and we are thankful to Edmontonians for their support for this new transportation alternative," said Ramit Kar, Uber's general manager for Alberta, in a news release.

"Edmonton could be the first Canadian jurisdiction to embrace ride sharing with smart regulations as has been done in over 60 North American jurisdictions."

The survey found that the idea of a minimum fare by the City of Edmonton, which would increase the cost of a ride,is divisive.

It also says people are much more likely to oppose (34 per cent oppose and another 11 per cent somewhat oppose) rather than support a new minimum fare by the City.

As far as the service Uber provides,the poll found that about eight of 10 respondents support (64 per cent) or somewhat support (15 per cent) itin Edmonton. Support is spread among all age groups, but especially those under 50.

Prepared to pay premium

Almost 70 per cent of Edmontonians support (43 per cent) or somewhat support (25 per cent) paying a premium for a rideduring high-demand periods, the poll says.

As well, the survey concludes, that nearly 80 per cent support (58 per cent) or somewhat support (20 per cent) allowing people to pay a premium for an immediate ride share if informed of the rate and they are able to estimate the fare.

On Jan. 26, it is expected city council will change the vehicle-for-hire bylaw that will allow Uber to operate legally in Edmonton.

"We continue to have positive dialogue with the City and we are hopeful that Edmonton will be a Canadian leader in ridesharing," Kar said.

Up to now Uber has been operating illegally because itdoes not adhere to the bylaw.

The city's cab drivers have been fighting vigorously for over a year to stop Uber from operating, saying it's taking away from theirbusiness.

But the key for cab drivers now under the adjusted bylaw, they say, is that they will be more heavily regulated than Uber drivers.

These observations are based on arandom telephone (land and cell)survey of 402 Edmonton residents. A random survey of 402 individuals is accurate five percentage points 19 times out of 20. The survey was completed between Jan. 13-15.