Q&A interview with Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Senior Public Policy Manager at Bolt
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How has the uptake been for the Bolt Lite category since it launched in July last year?
The uptake of our Bolt Lite category has been phenomenal, which tells us that there is a need for more affordable methods of transport that cater for shorter trips (last mile). We are optimistic that the broader roll-out of the Bolt Lite category will ensure that passengers have even more mobility options and increase earning opportunities for drivers.
The Bolt Lite vehicle category continues to do well, and we have since expanded to a number of areas in Johannesburg.
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What do you think has been the driving- and or contributing factors to its success in the SA market?
Bolt Lite’s success can be attributed to its ability to offer passengers a more budget-friendly option for short-distance trips, making it an attractive choice for individuals seeking economical transport solutions.
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Future plans for this offering?
Bolt is committed to continuously innovating and improving its services, including Bolt Lite, to serve its riders better and provide more earning opportunities for the drivers. While specific details of future plans for Bolt Lite may not be available at this time, Bolt remains dedicated to expanding its presence and enhancing the affordability, accessibility, and convenience of its low-cost category for short-distance trips. We have also recently launched a delivery service powered by the Bolt Lite category, Bolt Send, which provides a seamless and convenient solution for delivering parcels across Bolt’s service areas across Johannesburg, where Bolt Lite operates, accepting cash and card payments.
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What other services/offerings is Bolt working on to unlock earning opportunities for drivers through amongst others, branding opportunities for drivers?
This month, we announced the branding of our Bolt Lite category. Drivers who choose to brand their vehicles will receive an additional income as an incentive, providing them with a valuable opportunity to supplement their earnings and improve their financial stability.
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In what ways does the Bolt Lite category align with Bolt’s overall mission and vision for providing accessible and reliable transportation solutions?
Bolt Lite aligns with Bolt’s mission and vision by providing accessible and reliable transport solutions to a broader segment of the population. By offering a low-cost category for short-distance trips, Bolt ensures that individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds can access safe and convenient transportation, thereby contributing to the overall goal of democratising mobility.
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Can you discuss any specific feedback or insights received from riders who have utilized the Bolt Lite category, particularly in terms of their experiences and satisfaction with the service?
Feedback from riders who have utilised the Bolt Lite category often highlights the affordability and convenience of the service. Riders appreciate the cost-effectiveness of Bolt Lite for short trips, as well as the reliability and ease of booking through the Bolt app. Overall, riders express satisfaction with the quality of service provided by Bolt Lite, reinforcing its value proposition as a viable transportation option for short-distance travel.
On a rather extraordinary note one of our drivers had the pleasure of taking our President home in his vehicle; see story here.
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The partnership with My Next Car to provide vehicle financing solutions is an innovative approach to removing barriers to car ownership. Could you elaborate on how this partnership works and its impact on drivers partnering with Bolt?
The partnership with My Next Car provides drivers partnering with Bolt access to vehicle financing solutions, thereby removing barriers to car ownership. Through this innovative approach, drivers can obtain a vehicle on a rent to own model, allowing them to join the Bolt platform as independent contractors and access additional earning opportunities.
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In what ways does the Bolt Lite category with the vehicle financing solution align with Bolt’s broader goals and commitments regarding sustainability, economic empowerment, and social impact?
The Bolt Lite category, coupled with the vehicle financing solution provided by My Next Car, aligns with Bolt’s broader goals and commitments regarding sustainability, economic empowerment, and social impact. By offering affordable transportation options and facilitating vehicle ownership for drivers, Bolt contributes to reducing car ownership costs, promoting economic empowerment among drivers, and enhancing overall accessibility to transportation services. Additionally, by supporting drivers in accessing fuel-efficient vehicles, Bolt promotes sustainability and environmental responsibility within the transportation industry.
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Why is it that they are all vehicles are yellow?
We can all agree that yellow is eye-catching however there is no particular reason why the vehicles are currently all yellow.
