Uber caps surge pricing in US winter storm

After enduring severe criticism in previous disasters, Uber is capping how much fares can be increased during the major snowstorm that's hitting the US.

Ride-sharing service Uber is partnering with Carnegie Mellon University to develop driverless cars. (AAP)

Those wanting a ride home from car service Uber during the major snowstorm descending on the US' Northeast can expect to pay more than the usual fare.

But, after taking heat for big price increases during past storms, Uber has capped how much prices can rise in US cities during disasters or emergencies.

In New York City, surge pricing will be capped at 2.8 times - nearly triple - the normal fare. The San Francisco company also plans to donate the proceeds after paying drivers to the American Red Cross. That's part of its nationwide policy during disasters and emergencies after criticism when prices surged during Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

At smaller rival Lyft, prices never go higher than three times the regular rate.