Despite how Uber might like to make it sound, this isn't NYC paving the way for just UberTaxi, it's paving the way for a whole host of taxi companies to operate hailing systems- any can apply to be a part of the pilot program.

So, let's see what happens- given Uber's history with government bodies I'm half expecting them to file their paperwork incorrectly, be unable to operate and protest the fact by sending a mariachi band down Broadway.

At the very least, we can expect Hailo and GetTaxi to submit applications. Probably the risible ZabKab, too.

Now I can only hope the trend continues and Vancouver gets it's mess sorted out in short order.

http://blog.uber.com/2012/11/22/helpubervan/

Anyone want to speculate on how many years it will be till we see a similar announcement on a trial program for e-hailing self-driving Uber cars in SF? The future is a cool place to live.

I'm betting you'll see it first in NYC. New Yorkers already hate driving, most don't own cars, and many don't even have drivers licenses. Banning manned vehicles and replacing everything with robotic cabs is much more likely to happen on Manhattan first.

I don't know... an unmanned vehicle sitting still in Manhattan traffic isn't much more impressive than a manned vehicle sitting still in traffic. :P I jest, of course.

...but as a counter to that, NYC also has a far more comprehensive public transit system. The market may be smaller.

nah, nyc is packed with cars everyday. most (plurality if not majority of) traffic seems to be biz delivery and taxi, not commuters. commuting a car into nyc sucks, and most would take taxi if they could afford it over trains.

Does anyone know if the rates are different based on whether you get a town car or a taxi?

They are different.

https://www.uber.com/cities/san-francisco#cities

In San Francisco (I assume it will be the same in NYC), Uber charges the regular taxi rates + $1 booking fee + 20% gratuity fee.