Uber Tests Option in US for Women to Opt for a Female Driver

Uber Technologies Inc. is piloting a new ride type in the US that will match female riders and drivers, expanding access to a safety feature it already offers in some international markets.

The service will launch in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Detroit over the next few weeks, the company said in a statementWednesday. Riders will see a new on-demand ride option called “Women Drivers” alongside the existing UberX, Comfort, UberXL and Black offerings. Customers can reserve such a trip in advance, or set their preference in the app settings to increase the likelihood of being matched with a woman driver.

Female drivers, who make up ...