VANCOUVER — The controversial taxi alternative Uber is believed to be planning an imminent expansion into Vancouver, despite an edict from the city that the U.S.-based company cannot legally operate.
Uber recently posted job ads for managers in Vancouver and is also accepting registrations for prospective drivers for its UberX service.
Unlike a traditional tax cab, the UberX service allows anyone with a car and a driver's licence to pick up passengers.
Vancouver's city council recently voted not to hand out new taxi licences — including to Uber drivers — for six months, while B.C.'s transportation minister has warned Uber could face stiff fines if it operates without proper approvals.
Vancouver Counc. Geoff Meggs says the city has had productive discussions with Uber, but he says he's concerned the company could start operating without proper licensing, as it has in Ottawa.
The company isn't confirming its plans for Vancouver, though the company insists it's not a taxi service and shouldn't be governed by taxi regulations.
