Uber drivers in New York are calling for an e-tipping function to be integrated into the Uber app.
The Independent Drivers Guild, which represents NYC Uber drivers, launched an online petition Thursday, which has quickly surpassed 2,000 e-signatures.
The Guild says tipping has always been part of the traditional taxi industry and tips have always formed a big part of the take-home pay for drivers.
"In-app tipping would be a clear path to put thousands of dollars back into drivers’ pockets," said Jim Conigliaro Jr., founder of the guild, which is backed by the Machinists Union.
"Drivers in the industry—especially drivers in the industry before Uber—derived a lot of income from tips. Taxi drivers have always been tipped at the end of ride. It’s always been a part of the for-hire vehicle industry."
Although this is not the first time e-tipping has been proposed, Uber says it sees no reason to integrate it in the app when riders can simply tip a driver with cash at the end of the ride as they would any other taxi service.
"On Uber, tips are not included, nor are they expected or required. Riders tell us that one of the things they like most about Uber is that it’s hassle-free. Riders are free to offer tips and drivers are welcome to accept them, as has always been our policy," said Uber spokeswoman Alix Anfang in a statement.
