Uber has officially launched the campaign for its aerial rideshare service Uber Air, while also unveiling Melbourne as the first pilot city outside of the US for the service.
Uber partnered with Bipolar Studios for the campaign, which includes a film, social content, print stills and a VR installation.
The futuristic film depicts Uber’s air taxis flying across cities, something the company hopes to bring to market by 2023.
And although the film is shot entirely by CGI, Melbourne residents will be able to see to revolutionary air taxis up close as early as next year, after the city was announced as the first international Uber Air pilot city.
“Today, over 3.8 million Aussies regularly use Uber as a reliable way to get from A to B, and governments across the country have recognised the important role ridesharing plays in the future of transport for our cities,” said Uber regional general manager AUNZ Susan Anderson.
“Australian governments have adopted a forward-looking approach to ridesharing and future transport technology.
“This, coupled with Melbourne’s unique demographic and geospatial factors, and culture of innovation and technology, makes Melbourne the perfect third launch city for Uber Air.”
Uber has previously stated that the electrically powered and driverless air taxis can carry two passengers for just over 30km.
Uber Air will help clear congestion on the roads and get passengers from A to B faster.
The 19km journey from the airport to the CBD – which can take up to an hour in traffic – will only take 10 minutes via air taxi.
Uber has partnered with Telstra, Macquarie and Scentre Group (owner of Westfield) to deliver the infrastructure for the project.