Uber to challenge its app’s ban in Berlin

15 Aug 2014

Uber has said it will challenge a ban imposed on its mobile ride-sharing app in Berlin by the city’s State Department of Civil and Regulatory Affairs due to concerns for passenger safety.

Uber faces a €25,000 fine if it ignores the order.

BBC reported Fabien Nestmann, general manager at Uber in Germany, as having said the decision from the Berlin authorities is not progressive and it’s seeking to limit consumer choice for all the wrong reasons.

“As a new entrant we’re bringing much-needed competition to a market that hasn’t changed in years,” said Nestmann.

Uber began operating in Berlin in February 2013. Its app enables smartphone users to obtain a ride from taxis, private cars and ride-sharing services.

The Berlin authority said that unlike traditional taxis, Uber’s insurance might not cover passengers using the service.

This isn’t the first time Uber has faced a ban in Germany or other struggles throughout Europe. The company managed to over turn a ban in Hamburg, but Spain is working on legislation to prohibit any type of for-profit private transportation.

Drivers of the black cab taxis in London have taken Uber to court, and in Paris, protests by taxi drivers have turned violent.

Uber image via Shutterstock

Tina Costanza was a journalist and sub-editor at Silicon Republic

editorial@siliconrepublic.com