A new study released by the San Francisco County Transportation Authority (SFCTA) suggests Lyft and Uber have revved up the ride-hail competition, making 170,000 trips per average each weekday. That number smokes out the taxis of yesteryear by nearly 12 percent.

During peak times, the number increased to 20-26 percent, with concentration in SoMa and Downtown, a significantly higher range than the 2-4 percent seen by the less-dense populated areas of the city. Putting that into perspective, that is 5,700 rideshare vehicles (6,500 on Fridays) during peak times operating on city streets.

Hoodline points out the study is compelling because it “is the first comprehensive study to estimate the volume, frequency and coverage of intra-city ride-hail trips from the transit network companies (TNCs).” Currently, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is responsible for tracking and regulating TNCs to supply updated data. However, both Lyft and Uber have yet to provide that information to the city.

According to the data available to the SF Treasurer's office, roughly 45,000 residents are considered active Uber or Lyft drivers.

Uber, which has not been cooperative with the city’s demand for stricter background checks for drivers, has made a gesture of good faith when a spokesperson said they would, “update its infrastructure to reflect its transportation goals.” 

This should be interesting tug-of-war to watch over the next year. In the meantime, remember to make for SoMa or Downtown if you need a lift. Or a Lyft.