Uber has announced a strategic alliance with Gemini Trains to use the PHV company’s branding on the operator’s cross-channel trains. The trains will once again link Kent with mainland Europe by rail.
Although Gemini will be the operator, it will use the Uber brand. In addition, the technology company will allow users to buy tickets to travel on these trains through its app.
The initial route will connect London St Pancras, Ebbsfleet (Kent), Paris and Brussels, with plans to expand to other European destinations.
However, the company, founded by Lord Berkeley, still lacks the rolling stock and the funding to purchase it. The company intends to buy 10 newly designed trains, so their delivery could be delayed by several years.
Gemini plans to offer competitive fares, positioning itself as a direct rival to Eurostar, which maintains its current monopoly and has not resumed stops in Kent despite local pressure.
The collaboration follows Uber’s model with the Thames Clipper ships in London, where the brand is visible but the management rests with the train operator. “Passengers will now be able to enjoy value and comfort on state-of-the-art trains at the click of a button,” said Adrian Quine, CEO of Gemini Trains.