Uber is launching two new services in response to what it says is demand from companies seeking to bring employees back to their workplaces.

The Uber For Business corporate division says interest in commuter-type rides has doubled since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

But this week it is putting forward two specific programs that it hopes will formalize passenger arrangements as some office-based workers begin to return to their offices.

Launching as pilots projects in North America, Europe the Asia Pacific region, before a full roll-out later this year, Uber will introduce Employee Group Rides and Business Charter services.

Business Charter will allow companies to create a commuter program for businesses to hire sedans, SUVs, vans and buses to transport staff from specific locations to their workplaces.

The second program will match co-workers within a company for ridesharing when they request a trip to or from their place of business.

Uber says: "As businesses around the world reimagine everyday work and begin to plan their reopening strategies, they are looking for ways to best support employees—from commuting to socially distanced meetings to the new office meal experience.

"In every city and state, companies are considering how to make this transition in the near future as seamless and safe as possible."

Meanwhile, ground transport brand Blacklane has unveiled intercity rides between London and six cities at rates aimed at being lower than the price for standard rail journeys.

The company plans to add further cities to the initiative.