Uber is continuing to expand its reach by partnering with Capital One to reward cardholders who use the ride-sharing mobile application’s transportation network.

Cardholders will receive 20 percent back as a statement credit on all Uber rides through April 2016 when they pay using their Quicksilver or QuicksilverOne card, and for a limited time can receive their first two rides free, up to $30 per ride.  The partnership aims to personalize Uber’s status as a viable and more friendly transportation option in the mobile era.

“We are always looking for new ways to reward our riders,” said David Richter, vice president for strategic initiatives with Uber, San Francisco. “This is another new partnership that will offer additional rewards to another set of our rider base.

“We were excited to partner with Capital One because they share our vision of creating simple solutions to meet important consumer needs,” he said. “This partnership combines the simplicity and convenience that both Capital One and Uber provide to their customers.”

Gaining traction
To take advantage of the offer, first the card holder sets up an Uber account. Next, he or she enters the promo code “capitalone” and pays by Capital One card. Cardholders have until April 30, 2016 to redeem both free rides.

Uber has rapidly gained traction as a reliable but pricey alternative to traditional taxi services. Now in more than 300 cities and over 55 countries, it recruits citizen drivers to shuttle people to their destinations using a mobile app, through which the passengers also pay for their rides.

In August, Uber sought to expand its burgeoning popularity into product delivery-on-demand.

The company launched a test in its headquarters market of Washington of a service called Corner Store that allowed users to order from a menu of products that includes toiletries, gifts and office supplies.

The same month, Uber integrated its ride-service app with Hyatt Hotels’ mobile application to make it easier for guests to get from their current location to their Hyatt hotel.

Last week, it continued to build its presence in the mobile marketplace by allowing consumers to order rides to businesses in their area from the YP local search mobile application, meeting accelerated demand for integration of mobile functionality and service.

No registration needed
The Quicksilver offer does not require any additional sign-up or registration. The 20 percent statement credit card holders will receive on all rides through April 2016, is on top of the unlimited 1.5 percent cash back they already earn on every purchase with Quicksilver.

“Capital One and Uber share the goal of saving people time and money through truly innovative products and services, and are both committed to simplicity and convenience,” said Manan Mahadevia, vice president for US Card with Capital One, Richmond, VA.

“This partnership brings together the common focus that both companies have on creating products and experiences that seamlessly deliver value and make people’s lives easier.”

Final Take
Michael Barris is staff reporter on Mobile Commerce Daily, New York