A new taxi comparison and booking app has launched in Manchester , with bosses hoping to rival the hugely popular Uber service.

Karhoo lets people compare prices of black cabs, minicabs and executive cars so they can get the best deal – and make more cash for local firms.

The app, which has the backing of the United Kingdom Trade Investment’s Global Entrepreneur Programme (GEP), has given taxi firms across the country a chance to boost business.

Some reported revenue increases of between 20 and 30 per cent after two-months of the service operating in London, with some companies having to hire more drivers to cope with demand.

Karhoo, which has a network of more than 90,000 cabs, has already signed up fleets in Manchester Cars, Call A Car, MCR Kingsway, Passenger Cars Group and StreetCars.

Bosses hope more firms will sign up in the coming months as the app gains popularity in the city.

Naeem Hamid, managing director of Manchester Cars, said: “We have seen what Karhoo has done for the industry in London and, for us, it was a simple decision to join Karhoo.

“At a time when we are seeing work being taken away from local firms by other apps, Karhoo gives us the chance to get more rides that we did not have access to before.”

Aqeel Arshad, operations director at StreetCars, said: “There has been so much disruption to the industry lately and joining Karhoo allows us to make sure we are part of the future.”

Karhoo passengers can compare cabs by price, proximity and vehicle style.

Consumers can book months in advance, choose immediate pick-up and make multiple bookings.

With transparent pricing and no surge, prices will not be inflated, no matter how busy it gets.

Daniel Ishag, CEO and Founder of Karhoo, said: “We are delighted to be launching in Manchester, one of the most vibrant cities in the country.

“Karhoo will gives passengers more choice and transparency when booking a cab and, with our ever-growing network of local operators, Karhoo will make it easier to book a ride than ever before”.

“Karhoo is a game-changer."

  • To qualify for the £10 off your first ride promotion download the Karhoo app (available on App Store and Google Play). Register with your card details and then enter the MEN10 promo code in the app promos menu before booking a ride. Usual T&Cs apply.