Lyft and Uber are two companies who have been tackling the ride-hailing industry in two different, but similar ways. Lyft is known to be a more casual approach whereas Uber provides a "personal driver" experience while you sit in the back seat.
Bottom line, is it comes down to the experience and customer service. As a rider--what do you want? Do you even care? Just like Coca Cola and Pepsi, a healthy compeition will benefit customers and people will choose the one that makes them feel good. Just like this article points out, Virgin America is attracting a certain flyer based on the experience it brings compared to other airlines.
We think Lyft and Uber will both thrive and will attract two different types of riders and other marketplace owners should take note. At the end of the day, it's not about the technology, but how you're uniquely meeting your customer's needs.