New Bolt feature lets drivers name their price

Ride-hailing app Bolt announced today that it’s introducing some new features to the platform.  The new feature will now allow drivers to set their own prices for a trip while passengers will now be able to select their driver. 

Bolt says in a statement that this new feature is designed to make the platform even more attractive to drivers by putting them firmly in control of their entrepreneurial journey. 

The company says drivers have consistently requested more flexibility over pricing, with many currently choosing to accept and then reject trips if a more profitable journey becomes available elsewhere, leading to a poor rider experience.

With this new feature, drivers will be able to set their own prices within a range of price per Km to reflect their own preferences and local market conditions. Alternatively, they can elect to continue to use Bolt’s dynamic standard pricing. 

“Drivers have consistently asked us for the ability to set their own prices so they can ensure a journey is profitable enough before it’s accepted. We have built our business around giving drivers total flexibility. These changes are part of that philosophy and will create a better functioning marketplace.’’ Kenneth Micah, Bolt’s Regional Manager for East Africa said. 

For passengers, they will now manually select a preferred driver based on a number of factors such as price fare, expected time of arrival, and driver rating. In addition to these factors, riders can also see additional information such as Driver Photo, Driver Name and Car Details to help empower their decision for their trip. 

‘’While driver needs are met, it was just as critically important to ensure riders enjoy the same liberty by selecting a driver of their choice for their trip. This is another way we are ensuring riders know that the drivers with impeccable ratings are available for their trip. We hope that this will result in great experiences for both stakeholders as we continue to find innovative solutions for pleasant experiences”’ Kenneth said. 

Bolt says it will be piloting these new features in Nairobi as the first market in Africa.

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