Las Vegas visitors can now hail a taxi or limo with just a touch of a finger on their smartphone, The Associated Press reported.
Integrity Vehicle Solutions launched the Ride Genie application Wednesday, which gives users access to about 400 black cars, SUVs and limos from a variety of transportation companies. Taxis are also expected to pick up the app's assignments in the next six to eight weeks, according to AP.
"The riding public can take advantage of the convenience of technology without losing the assurances that the driver and car that they hail are properly inspected, regulated, licensed and insured," said Ride Genie's CEO Mark James, whose former limo company will be offering their services through the app.
James commends the individual companies for being "able to put their competitive differences aside to create a better consumer experience."
There is a $5 fee is added to each ride hailed through Ride Genie that goes to the company, along with a default 20 percent tip, though passengers have the option to adjust or remove the tip. Users can also track their vehicle's progress towards them on a map.
Ridersharing apps like Uber and Lyft have been getting much criticism these days for allowing average, unregulated citizens to pose as chauffeurs. But unlike them, Ride Genie drivers are professionals and are regulated through the taxi authority, AP reported.
It should, however, be noted that while the app does operate within the confines of Sin City's strict cab and limo regulations and fee structures, it means users who call for a black car or sedan will be forced to pay a minimum one hour service, which typically costs $50 an hour with a $5 fuel charge included, according to AP.
Mark James does credit Uber for making it possible for his company to develop and launch a car-hailing app in Las Vegas, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
"We really appreciate how well Uber has set the table for us with all their whining and complaining," James said. "They have really created a fervor around, 'Why isn't there an app here?'"
Uber has expressed interest in entering the Vegas market, but heavy regulation has kept them out thus far.
"We wanted to do it right for Nevada, we don't think that those other companies have it right," James told 8 News Now. "We think that they are delivering technology at the sacrifice of safety."
