Motoristas do Uber fazem paralisação e mostram lado negativo da empresa

Low revenue puts those who choose to be pirates at risk

The vulnerability of drivers who choose to work for the Uber app has come to light. Disgusted with numerous factors, including low pay, the app's “partners” went on strike at the end of March to demand better wages. This was a cold shower for those who thought they could make big profits from the activity.

The low prices charged by the app, and passed on to drivers with discounts ranging from 20% to 25%, are the reason for the protests. Many have had to make large investments in purchasing vehicles, in addition to cleaning their cars and being required to provide water and candy to passengers. But the costs for these actions are not included in the app's spreadsheet. If there is even a spreadsheet.

The strike was encouraged through WhatsApp channels. The strike shows that, little by little, the drivers who signed up for the app are becoming exhausted. Their rides, while cheaper than those charged by meter, are making a loss. This shows that taxi prices are in line with reality. After all, taxi drivers are forced to change cars periodically. And the tax exemptions only ease their pockets, since there are many fees that each licensee must pay.

The protests took place in São Paulo, Campinas, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, Porto Alegre, Brasília and Recife. According to drivers, 20% of the people took part in the strike. In unofficial statements, the app claims to have 10,000 drivers across Brazil.

The strikers asked for a 20% increase in fares. The “partners” also demanded greater control over the hiring of new drivers. The app did not comment on the protest.