Bolt Reportedly Adopts Fixed Pricing Model Just like InDrive as Drivers Seek Compensation for Delays and Extensions

Leading e-hailing platform Bolt has reportedly switched to a fixed pricing system for its trips, similar to inDrive’s model, amidst rising ride-hailing fares. Several Bolt drivers have shared their experiences, noting that riders now pay the exact fare shown when booking a trip, regardless of unexpected changes during the journey.

Previously, trip fares on Bolt could fluctuate based on factors like traffic and route changes. However, drivers told Technext that the fare displayed to riders before the trip now remains constant, even at the trip’s conclusion.

One driver, identified as Willie, explained, “Bolt riders don’t ask for the price after ending a trip anymore. They simply transfer the amount they saw when they booked because of Bolt’s fixed pricing system.”

Another driver, Osemhen, described the change as surprising, stating, “I’ve experienced this several times. It’s shocking that Bolt quietly moved to fixed pricing without notifying drivers.”

However, some drivers observed that fares may still fluctuate under specific conditions. For instance, John, a driver, noted, “When the trip goes smoothly as projected by Bolt, the price remains fixed. But if there are unexpected delays or deviations, it may increase.”

In contrast, Jude, another driver, shared a different experience: “I took a trip to Ikorodu. The fare was ₦22,300, but the rider asked me to go further, beyond the destination on the app. Even though I drove farther, the fare didn’t change. Thankfully, the rider added ₦1,000 for me.”

At the time of publication, Bolt had not responded to Technext’s request for comment.

Drivers Seek Compensation for Delays and Extra Stops

Some drivers argue that the fixed pricing model is unfavorable as it fails to account for delays, extensions, or deviations during trips. To address this, drivers have begun charging riders directly for additional stops or extra distance.

A driver explained, “If you want to branch somewhere on the way, I’ll tell you to add money. Don’t tell me the app will calculate it because it won’t.”

Another driver, Emmanuel, advised his peers to be transparent with riders about the fixed fare system. “Just tell them the fare won’t change, and agree on the extra amount beforehand. I prefer negotiating before picking up the rider so everything is clear.”

E-Hailing Drivers Adapt to Rising Costs

The move to fixed pricing comes as drivers nationwide face increasing costs due to skyrocketing fuel prices. Many drivers are employing alternative strategies to maximize their earnings, such as negotiating fares offline or cutting costs by reducing services.

In Southern Nigeria, riders report that drivers often turn off air conditioning during trips or charge additional fees to use it. A passenger in Calabar, Ola Dami, recounted paying nearly double the app-quoted fare, only to discover the extra charge did not include air conditioning.

E-hailing platforms have attempted to address these practices. In December, Technext reported that inDrive deactivated a Lagos driver who demanded an additional fee for using air conditioning during a ride.

As the cost of operating within the e-hailing space continues to rise, drivers are finding ways to adjust, while platforms like Bolt refine their pricing models to balance the needs of both drivers and riders.