Minicab app company Bolt has announced that drivers can now set their own prices. Just after Uber increased fares and the battle to find taxis flared up, Bolt decided to let drivers set their own fares. For example, Bolt hopes that this adjusted policy will attract new drivers. Since there is now the option to set the prices themselves for those who have signed up with the app, drivers can ensure that every trip they take will be profitable.

Customers can now choose from a list of drivers offering different prices. The Estonian app said it is making the switch because, like Uber, it faces a shortage of drivers to meet demand, which has risen rapidly since restrictions were eased in the UK.

cancellations

The app also hopes it will help address an increase in cancellations passengers have seen in recent months, as drivers cancel the trip order themselves at the last minute to avoid a less profitable booking. Drivers often accept travel requests but then decline after they have more profitable options in their ride offerings, Bolt said. This leads to a "bad experience for customers", according to the Estonian startup, which says it has built the company around giving drivers total flexibility.

Also read: Uber competitor Bolt is now also active in The Hague