These things are everywhere in my neighborhood and even though I try to take transit (or walk) as much as possible, sometimes you a car is the best option to get where you’re going and these are so much nicer than an Uber/Lyft/taxi. No surprise that ridership has exploded since they became accessible to the general public.
They’re just as easy to use, and they are standardized (afaik) on car type, being some kind of Jaguar model which is comfy. But more experientially, you are no longer in a social situation and can do whatever you like. And it’s easy to set up the music to whatever you like :)
I’ve not been in one that has been stuck or confused, though I have seen them ‘stuck’ while I am pedestrianing (not stuck, but actually being cautious and deferent to other entities on the streetscape…)
Thanks! I just read the Wired article linked in this community and they say a similar thing.
That’s kind of concerning, actually. It’s just another way to isolate ourselves - even though I totally get it.
Don’t forget this is a dense city. Isolation is in short supply! It’s nice to be able to choose a non-social option to get somewhere if that’s what I’m in the mood for. And obviously everyone is different but I’m usually taking a car to see my friends, go to a concert, store, restaurant, etc – the difference being that I am choosing those social interactions and opting out of the social part of a cab ride; not something I’ve personally ever held much in value in the first place.