Uber installing screens and cockpits in 20,000 cars for safer rides

Uber on Wednesday announced the installation of safety screens or safety ‘cockpits’ in 20,000 premier sedans, setting a new standard of safety for its riders and drivers in the ‘new normal.’

The ride-hailing firm, which pioneered safety cockpits in India with the installation in UberMedic cars to transport frontline healthcare workers, has already fitted them in 8,000 cars. The cost of installation is borne by Uber, and it comes free of cost to drivers. Additionally, these safety cockpits are being scaled up across other product categories immediately.

The safety cockpit is an innovative and protective ceiling-to-floor transparent plastic screen installed between the passenger and the driver. This enables social distancing within the confines of a car. Additionally, it acts as a safeguard to prevent droplet and aerosol transmission.