No one is killing the private hire rideshare game like Uber. Uber drivers completed over 9 billion trips* globally in 2023 alone. However, growing demand means increased expectations from passengers, in particular luxury rides.
This trend could be a lucrative opportunity for Uber drivers looking to increase their earnings.
We look into the premium offerings from Uber in the UK – Uber Exec and Uber Lux, and how they can help drivers earn more. After all, who doesn’t want a little extra in their pay packet?
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What is Uber Exec?
Uber Exec is the first of Uber’s premium offerings. As an Uber Exec driver, you must have completed over 1,000 trips and maintained a rating of 4.9 or above.
Uber Exec’s passengers enjoy excellent service levels, including meet and greets, helping with luggage, and little extras like refreshments or peppermints.
Your vehicle must be a mid-tier luxury model, registered no later than 2017. Your vehicle will be well maintained with no cosmetic damage and be sparkling clean on the inside.
The Allure of Uber Lux
Uber Lux is the creme de la creme of rides on the Uber platform. This is Uber’s top offering to passengers looking for the ultimate in luxury rides.
Unlike Uber Exec, you cannot upgrade to be an Uber Lux driver. Uber Lux drivers are onboarded by Uber themselves. You’ll be expected to meet strict vehicle requirements and drive a top-of-the-line vehicle.
Accepted models vary by location, but Uber Lux vehicles can include:
- Audi A8
- BMW 7-Series
- Jaguar XJ
- Mercedes-Benz S Class
Uber Lux is only available in select cities such as London, but its exclusivity drives a higher price than standard Uber rides.
The Current Uber Market
Approximately 85,000 drivers were signed up to Uber in 2023. By 2028, users of the app are expected to peak at almost 19 million users. This represents nine years of continuous growth, meaning the opportunity is out there to earn more from your passengers year on year.
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How to Maximise Your Uber Earnings
You can expect to make more trips around large cities and areas with more business clientele. Luxury hotels, airports and high-profile events are also hotspots.
Be strategic by paying attention to peak traffic times like rush hours. Consider being available in the early hours when people need to get home after a night out, or first thing in the morning to catch the early risers.
Uber Exec and Uber Lux drivers can expect to earn up to 3x a standard Uber X fare, and surge pricing could increase this further.
Some electric vehicles, such as the Tesla Model S also qualify for Uber Green, so you could pick some extra rides there.
Tips and Tricks from the Pros
The first place to learn more should be your fellow drivers. Consider talking to current Uber Exec or Uber Lux drivers about their experiences.
YouTube creator Private Hire Mike has created this useful video regarding Uber Exec requirements in the UK – and he’s an Exec driver himself!
Watch his video:
Making the Choice: Uber Exec or Uber Lux?
From the outset, there doesn’t seem to be too much difference between Uber’s two most premium offerings.
Both require drivers to have completed 1,000 trips and to have maintained a driver score of 4.9 or above. Standard vehicle condition requirements are similar, as are the expectations of customer service levels.
The biggest differences between Exec and Lux are the accepted vehicle types, and availability of services.
As a reminder, Uber Exec accepts mid-tier luxury vehicles, whereas Uber Lux only accepts top-of-the-line luxury vehicles. It essentially comes down to what you as a driver can afford.
Greater London is going to be much busier for Uber Lux drivers, but this is of little use if you don’t live there!
Conclusion
If you’re an Uber X driver looking to make some extra cash, and you already own a vehicle accepted by Uber Exec, it makes sense to upgrade. You can still earn your normal fares, but Exec opens the door to higher earning potential.
Uber Lux drivers are often professional private hire drivers on the side, such as chauffeurs, with a wide range of clientele, who can and will pay you well. Uber Lux means you can earn between shifts with your vehicle.
The market for luxury on-demand rides is growing, and continuing to strengthen year on year. Strategically positioning yourself as an Exec or Lux driver means you’ll be taking advantage of the lucrative opportunities from higher-paying passengers.
Plus, you’ll be joining an elite group of Uber drivers who are truly the best in their industry.
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