inDrive expands into the US with its name-your-price model

inDrive, one of the world’s leading online rideshare services, has entered the US market through South Florida. As such, Americans can finally access inDrive’s disruptive name-your-price business model. The model will allow both customers and drivers to have a say in the pricing system. 

In a press release shared with Technext, the urban mobility company expressed delight at finally stamping its presence in the US. inDrive is already present in 48 countries, amassing over 175 million mobile app downloads within the space of 10 years. It’s the second most downloaded rideshare app globally after Uber. 

Adam Warner, Country Manager for inDrive in the US shared that the decision to make South Florida the company’s first US market of operations was due to its citizens’ desire for other transport options. With high fares the norm in the ride-share space, offering customers and drivers the option to negotiate fares is a game changer. 

“inDrive puts power in the hands of drivers and riders through our peer-to-peer pricing model and creates a more engaging customer experience –one that both addresses the need for fair pricing and empowers community members with reliable transportation Essentially, the company has placed great emphasis on transparent pricing, making it easier for users to trust the brand. 

Adam Warner

inDrive has always offered numerous benefits to both passengers and drivers since debuting in 2012 as inDriver. For instance, customers can type in their preferred pickup and drop-off locations while suggesting a fare for the ride. In a typical bid fashion, counteroffers from available drivers are allowed. Passengers can choose from more than one driver using cost, driver rating and vehicle model as criteria for selection.

Drivers also benefit from inDrive’s flexible business style as it allows them to earn more or less depending on the number of offers they accept. Perhaps the most interesting fact is that drivers won’t get to pay any commission for rides between July 2023 and January 2024. In a period where inDrive’s rivals are getting bashed for their exorbitant commissions, giving drivers a brief window to keep 100% of their earnings is a great idea. Besides, the company’s commission rate (10% global) is among the lowest in the ride-share market. 

It’s worth noting that drivers’ ability to retain 100% of earnings is subject to charges like airport fees and highway tolls depending on their route. Furthermore, the company says that it will “maintain a minimum ride price to ensure drivers are compensated fairly, while passengers benefit from savings on longer trips.” 

Eddy Velasquez acknowledges Miami as one of the world’s best destinations, adding that beyond its “cultural diversity, thriving nightlife, and beautiful beaches,” the company values the city’s people and their transport needs. 

Read also: inDrive launches e-hailing service in Ibadan following its name rebrand 

inDrive to prioritize safety in the US 

Aside from convenience and price, ride-share customers also consider safety when choosing a company. Last month, Bolt was accused of letting its app be a tool for kidnappers in Nairobi, Kenya. Some users revealed that the Bolt app was often used for kidnapping in Nairobi. 

To avoid security-related issues, inDrive revealed that prospective drivers will undergo extensive background checks. This includes their criminal record, licenses, and permits. As an added measure, passengers can drop reviews of a recent ride to help future passengers choose drivers based on the quality of previous rides. 

Drivers and passengers can also view each other’s details before agreeing to a ride to promote transparency. The drive app also has security-related features. For instance, riders can share their location during a ride with family and friends. The app also features a panic button to alert law enforcement and a round-the-clock support team.