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App drivers in Brazil report a drastic reduction in earnings and deceptive practices of the platforms, such as unexpected fare increases and lack of support in reimbursements. The devaluation of the service and the precarization of work lead many to question if it is still worth it to be an app driver.
In the contemporary scenario, urban mobility in Brazil has been largely shaped by the growth of transportation apps.
Since the arrival of these platforms, many Brazilians have found in them a source of income and flexibility in working hours.
However, behind this apparent convenience, challenges and grievances emerge that directly affect the lives of drivers.
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While a Brazilian works 113 hours to buy the basic food basket, a Portuguese person needs only 18 hours to take essential food home.
Marcos Kapp, an app driver since 2019, shares his experiences and frustrations accumulated over the years during an interview with 55Content.
He reports a significant drop in earnings and points out questionable practices of the platforms, such as unexpected fare adjustments and lack of support in reimbursements.
“Uber shows one value, but the passenger pays less, and the difference comes out of the driver’s pocket without notice,” Marcos laments.
Financial And Operational Challenges
Marcos highlights that, in the beginning, the activity was more profitable.
Over time, however, he observed a devaluation of the service and the precarization of work, making life unsustainable for those who depend exclusively on the apps.
He mentions that, while he used to earn reasonable amounts, he now has to work more hours to obtain similar income.
Additionally, he points to insecurity on the streets and the wear and tear on vehicles as factors that worsen the situation.
“Today, the fleet of app vehicles is worn out because drivers cannot perform proper maintenance,” he states.
Comparison With Other Activities
Before returning to Uber, Marcos worked with deliveries for Mercado Livre.
He reports that, working four days a week, he managed to earn an average of R$ 1,600, with costs of around R$ 480, resulting in a net profit of R$ 1,120.
“At Uber, it’s impossible to achieve that here in Bauru. To reach that amount, the driver would have to drive at least 18 hours straight, without stopping and risking safety,” he compares.
Practices Of The Platforms And Driver Dissatisfaction
Marcos criticizes the lack of transparency from the platforms regarding ride prices.
He mentions that the initially offered price for a ride is often reduced at the end, without clear explanations.
“It’s like a ‘gotcha’. The app shows one price, but in the end, the passenger pays a lower amount and Uber deducts that difference without informing anything,” he explains.
This practice, according to him, demotivates drivers and generates distrust towards the platforms.
Marcos also points out the lack of support in cases of reimbursements, especially in situations where the passenger does not pay for the ride.
“Uber covers this amount, but 99 doesn’t always do that. Sometimes, the company simply sends a message saying that they cannot reimburse the driver, and that’s it,” he reports.
Reflections On The Future Of The Profession
Faced with all these challenges, Marcos questions the viability of continuing as an app driver.
He notes that for many, the activity has ceased to be a supplementary source of income and has become the only available option, increasing pressure and wear.
“Today, being an app driver is not an activity that brings satisfaction. You work because you have to, because you have no other choice,” he concludes.
Marcos’s experience reflects a reality faced by many app drivers in Brazil.
According to a survey conducted by Cebrap for Amobitec, the country has approximately 1.2 million app drivers, and for 63% of them, the apps are their only source of income.
Furthermore, the app transportation market in Brazil, which includes platforms like Uber, 99, and iFood, involves about 1.6 million people, including drivers and couriers. This demonstrates the growing impact of apps on the country’s economy.
Future Perspectives And Alternatives
Despite the challenges, the app transportation sector continues to expand in Brazil.
Companies like Kapô Locadora are developing business models that aim to meet drivers’ needs, offering vehicle rentals without credit analysis.
Kapô projects a 66% increase in 2025, with a forecast of R$ 50 million in revenue.
However, for drivers like Marcos, the central question remains: is it still worth it to be an app driver?
The answer depends on various factors, including the conditions offered by the platforms, the demand for transportation services, and the alternatives available in the job market.
Meanwhile, it is essential for app transportation platforms to seek solutions that value and support their drivers, ensuring fair and sustainable working conditions.
After all, it is these professionals who transport millions of passengers through Brazilian cities every day.
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