Bengaluru-based cab aggregator Ola has officially launched its services in South West England. Starting today, people in and around the city of Bristol can book rides on the Ola app, with services launching in Exeter and more towns in the coming weeks. As a launch offer, Ola is offering a limited number of discounted rides to customers to try its service.
Ola claims that is the only ride-hailing app in the UK that offers passengers the option of PHVs and metered taxis through one platform. It is also offering drivers on the platform increased earnings through ‘market-leading’ commission rates of as low as 10% for PHVs and 5% for metered taxis, daily payments, and a 24/7 support system.
“While we remain in the early stages of our UK-wide rollout, we have seen passengers and drivers respond positively to what we offer and are more confident than ever that Ola will transform the market with its dynamic, responsible service that enables people to travel safely and conveniently. It is in our DNA to contribute to the local communities in which we operate, and we look forward to working closely with the local authorities across South West England to ensure we deliver the best possible service to all,” Ben Legg, Managing Director of Ola UK, said.
Ola claims that its services focus on passenger safety with features such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) screened drivers and processes such as 24/7 voice support, options to share ride details with emergency contacts and in-app emergency features. Ola is also working with national governments and local authorities, to help solve transport mobility issues in innovative and meaningful ways.
Ola is now operational in India, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. The company conducts one billion rides a year around the world, with more than a million drivers and 150 million customers in over 125 cities. The company continues to work with local authorities across the UK to expand nationwide.