Uber (UBER) has partnered up with MasterCard (MA) and Mexican online bank Bankaool to launch a debit card in Mexico.
According to Business Insider, the UberCard will only be available in Mexico where many card providers don’t allow their customers to use their cards for online payments, which is what Uber generally relies on. Luckily, because of MasterCard’s role in this collaboration, UberCard payments aren’t only relegated to the Uber app, but can be used anywhere that MasterCard is accepted.
Bankaool was founded in 2003, but transitioned to exclusively offering online bank accounts in 2014 and currently has about 65,000 customers. This collaboration with Uber will likely help it gain more exposure and become more popular in the country. Uber will benefit as well, as Bankaool’s technology will provide many more potential customers with the ability to actually use the app.
Uber launched in Mexico in 2013, and is now active in 31 cities. Those who sign up for the new UberCard will receive their first ride free, up to $100.
Over the past year Uber has been making a few changes to the way customers pay. Though this is the first time it’s offering a debit card, it has begun allowing riders in some countries to pay with cash.
Uber could not immediately be reached for comment.
