Ride-hailing company Bolt has clarified that it fully covers the cost of discounts offered to passengers so that drivers receive the full fare before commission.
“When a rider receives a discount, Bolt automatically reimburses the driver the discounted portion. The reimbursement is reflected in the driver’s earnings immediately, ensuring no financial loss,” the company said.
“This means that their earnings are calculated as if no discount had been given, ensuring they do not lose money due to promotions,” it added.
As competition in the ride-hailing space intensifies, Bolt’s discount strategy aims to balance affordability for riders with sustainability for drivers — without forcing one to pay for the other. The explanation comes on the backdrop of claims that drivers’ earnings are curtailed by discounts leading to tension between them and passengers. Passengers have complained about being forced by drivers to cover full fares despite discounts displayed on the platform.
“This misinformation has led to unnecessary tensions between drivers and passengers, sometimes causing friction during trips,” Bolt says.
Last year, there was widespread dissatisfaction with drivers across different ride-hailing platforms — including Bolt — as they protested diminished earnings. The apps went to the drawing board and decided to hike their fares to quell drivers’ discontent. Bolt jacked up its fares by 10% to boost drivers’ earnings but there was still speculation that its discounts and promotions were still footed by the drivers — which Bolt has stated is not the case.
According to Bolt, the platform is ramping up communication efforts through direct driver notifications and in-app explanations to educate riders on these provisions. It also says that displayed fares are final, and and there is no need to negotiate or pay extra. The platform is now urging passengers to report drivers who insist on additional fares through the in-app mechanisms. According to the ride hailing company, its interventions in such cases range from driver education to account suspension.
“Bolt is committed to supporting drivers’ financial well being by ensuring they receive fair earnings, and providing affordable and transparent pricing for passengers,” the platform says.
