Of Rickshaws, Cats and Uber China
April 22, 2015
Uber China is going all out to woo customers with quirky promotions. Here’s how.
Uber, the app-based transportation service, has always been a firm believer in the “less is more” philosophy. The company, which entered China in February 2014, serves nine cities across the country but employs only a dozen employees. Each local team is given an extensive amount of autonomy—and authority—to manage Uber’s business in their city.
In spite of Uber’s somewhat bumpy ride in China, its management model allows local team to be extremely flexible, something Uber badly needs to outwit rivals, particularly Kuaidi Dache and Didi Dache who recently merged to form a monopoly that dominates over 90% of China’s car-hailing service market.
The flexibility is proving to be a good thing for customers of Uber, the six-year old start-up which is called Youbu in Chinese (roughly translated, it means right step). The result is out of the box thinking and creative promotions, many of which are China-only. For instance, in August 2014, Uber launched a non-profit ridesharing program named People’s Uber in Beijing to offer Beijingers an efficient and low-cost travel option. People’s Uber essentially matches car owners with extra space in their car with those in need for a ride. This service was later expanded to other cities.
Starting from practical services like People’s Uber, the company has moved to more quirky ones. During the 2015 Chinese New Year Festival, Uber surprised spirited Chinese citizens with a bizarre offer—you could book a car and for a little extra, you could get both your ride and a private lion dance performance, especially for you.
So what else does Uber do in China? We take a look at some of quirkiest promotions Uber has launched to woo Chinese customers, and it’s ‘China-fication’ so to say.
Enjoying what you’re reading?
Article Subscribe (1)
CKGSB Report
Our Programs
Emerging Tech Management Week: Silicon Valley
Global Unicorn Program Series
In partnership with UC Berkeley College of Engineering
A technology management program for leaders looking to turn emerging technologies into business opportunities.
Combining proven strategies and cutting-edge research, the program helps participants fuel innovation, seize opportunities in emerging technologies, and catalyze transformation within their organizations. Designed for managers, start-up leaders, and technology investors, it includes visits to venture capital firms and technology companies, alongside mentored group projects.
LocationUC Berkeley, California, United States
Date01 - 06 Nov, 2026
LanguageEnglish
Stanford & Silicon Valley Immersion Program
Global Unicorn Program Series
In partnership with Stanford Engineering Center for Global & Online Education
A Silicon Valley immersion for entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and investors leading and scaling AI-driven companies.
The program combines academic learning with visits to AI and robotics labs and Silicon Valley companies, giving participants direct exposure to emerging technologies and the businesses developing and applying them.
LocationStanford University Campus, California, United States
Date06 - 11 Dec, 2026
LanguageEnglish with Chinese Translation
Emerging Markets: Innovation and Scaling for Exponential Growth – ASEAN
A China-focused innovation program for ASEAN executives and business owners responding to the impact of AI on their industries.
Gain insights from leading Chese thinkers in Jakarta, with an optional immersion in China and opportunities to connect with the business leaders driving innovation. The program offers a closer look at how developments in China could affect your industry and business.
LocationJakarta, Indonesia
Date23–26 March 2027
LanguageEnglish (with Chinese translation)
Asia Start: AI + Digital Ecosystem China Expedition
An immersive program for entrepreneurs and executives looking to understand China's AI and digital economy firsthand.
Gain the latest trends and insights, strategies, and connections to overcome challenges and support future business growth in Asia and beyond.
LocationChina (Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou & optional Shenzhen)
DateApril 19–24, 2027
LanguageEnglish
Intelligent China: AI, EVs & Smart Manufacturing
A three-part program examining China’s advances in AI, electric vehicles, and smart manufacturing.
Through faculty-led sessions, company visits, and exchanges with industry leaders, gain practical insights for your organization's strategy, partnerships, and investment decisions. Join an individual four-day program or complete the full 12-day series.
LocationBeijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Hangzhou
DateSummer – Winter 2027 (three 4-day programs)
LanguageEnglish
