Uber is also offering a way to lock in the price for a specific route by paying a subscription charge, as well as a prepaid pass, in which you buy your bus – sorry, Route Share – fare in a pack of up to 20 ahead of time for a discount. Ride passes will also be made available for teenagers, “making the school run… easier than ever”.

Several online commentators and news outlets have pointed out that Uber's new offering bears striking similarities to traditional public transport, particularly buses.

A new Uber service will operate shuttles in select cities along set routes, offering pickups every 20 minutes.