Fresh questions raised over Uber’s ‘Trip Radar’ feature as City Hall awaits response from Mayor of London
- Perry Richardson
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
London Assembly Member Elly Baker has raised fresh questions about Uber’s use of its new ‘Trip Radar’ feature, amid ongoing concerns about driver safety and oversight by Transport for London (TfL).
The queries, submitted to the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, are currently unanswered since being tabled on 22 May.
The ‘Trip Radar’ system is a relatively new feature added to the Uber driver app. It allows private hire drivers to view a selection of nearby trip requests that are also being shown to other drivers. Drivers can then choose to express interest in any of the listed trips, with the system assigning the ride based on several internal factors, including proximity and driver rating.
The introduction of this tool has led to questions about its potential to distract drivers as they navigate London’s road network. Baker specifically asked whether TfL was consulted prior to the introduction of ‘Trip Radar’ and if any formal feedback was provided to Uber.
She also queried whether TfL had requested safety studies or risk assessments from Uber, particularly in relation to how the feature might affect driver alertness. Baker’s final question focused on how TfL intends to monitor the use of ‘Trip Radar’ in a way that ensures the feature does not contribute to collisions or safety incidents caused by driver distraction.
Trip Radar has sparked criticism among Uber drivers and industry groups over several issues.
Uber’s system allows multiple drivers to view available trips. Critics say it can lead to a scramble or “race to tap”, heightening competition. There are also concerns around driver safety. The App Drivers and Couriers Union (ADCU) argues that Trip Radar encourages drivers to check their screens more often while on the move, increasing distraction and accident risk.
On financial grounds, Trip Radar can result in unattractive jobs: long unpaid pickups, low‑earning trips, and fewer exclusive dispatches. The ADCU highlights how drivers feel pressured to accept these offers just to stay on the platform.
Uber UK’s General Manager Andrew Brem has defended the feature in the past. Speaking to TaxiPoint, he said Trip Radar is about providing flexibility and making more trips available overall. He acknowledged that Uber’s initial explanations were too technical and may have caused confusion—but stressed the goal is not to pit drivers against each other in a lowest‑fare contest. Brem dismissed claims of a “fastest‑finger‑first” or bidding model as “totally false”.
