VANCOUVER — Uber is asking a B.C. court to throw out a lawsuit filed by four Vancouver-based taxi companies that are attempting to block the ride-sharing service from launching in the city.
The taxi companies applied for an injunction in November amid rumours that Uber was about to launch its controversial Uber X service, which allows riders to use a smartphone app to connect with private drivers.
The companies' lawsuit alleged Uber was planning to launch in violation of local bylaws and provincial taxi regulations, which they argued would put passengers at risk.
But Uber says in court documents that the lawsuit is based on speculation, since Uber has yet to actually launch, and it says the taxi companies have no authority to enforce municipal or provincial regulations.
Uber's court filing describes the taxi companies as a "cartel" and argues the lawsuit is little more than an attempt to stifle competition and innovation.
Uber has run into opposition in many jurisdictions, including in Toronto, where city officials filed a lawsuit late last year in an attempt to force Uber out of its city.
