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

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”.

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