Chicago Taxis Aim to Counter Ride-Hailing Industry with Apps

Chicago’s taxicab industry has rolled out two official ride-hailing apps to compete with the likes of Uber and Lyft.

The department that regulates Chicago’s taxi industry announced a marketing campaign to publicize the apps, Arro and Curb.

The city chose the two companies because their app features include estimated wait times and fares and secure payment options. The city’s entire taxi fleet is required to use one of the two apps.

Curb has partnered with cab companies in 60 cities around the country. Arro is also used in New York.

Both companies emphasize their Chicago drivers are professional cabbies screened, licensed and regulated by the city.

The traditional taxi industry has complained that private drivers on other apps are not subject to the same regulations and fees.