Lyft launches in Asheville and Hickory

The ride-share company Lyft has expanded its services to Asheville and Hickory.

Lyft allows users to request and pay for a ride via smartphone app, much like Uber. Lyft became available in the two North Carolina cities midday Thursday, and will also provide services to and from Asheville Regional Airport, a Lyft representative said.

To celebrate the launch, Lyft is giving new passengers who use the code “NCLOVE” $5 off their first ride.

Lyft competitor Uber launched in Asheville in 2014. The two companies began operating in Charlotte in 2013.

Lyft now provides its ride-sharing services in more than 200 cities.

This story was originally published December 8, 2016 at 3:59 PM with the headline "Lyft launches in Asheville and Hickory."