US-based company inDrive set to venture into Philippine ride-hailing market

A global taxi app has set its sights on expanding into the Philippines in the coming year, aiming to revolutionize the ride-hailing industry by offering drivers increased earnings and passengers affordable fares. The company brings with it, its distinctive peer-to-peer model and a wide range of service offerings, the "people-driven" taxi app is said to offer users enhanced transparency and a plethora of choices.

The app developed by inDrive offers passengers the ability to propose a fare for their ride. Drivers have the option to accept, decline, or suggest a counter-offer without facing any penalties. Unlike other mobility apps, inDrive does not rely on an algorithm to set fares. This approach is said to enhance transparency for both passengers and drivers, granting passengers more freedom to choose and drivers greater control over their earnings.

Furthermore, the inDrive app provides passengers with a wide range of options to choose from when selecting a ride. These options include fare, expected arrival time, car model, and driver rating. Similarly, drivers have the freedom to accept ride requests that they consider cost-effective, profitable, and convenient.

According to the company, applicant drivers undergo thorough background checks, which include verifying their necessary documents, licenses, and permits. Passengers have the ability to rate their rides and give feedback regarding the behavior and quality of service provided by drivers. The app is equipped with safety features such as the option for passengers to share trip details with trusted contacts and access real-time GPS tracking during rides. Additionally, there is an emergency button available in the app for contacting authorities, and a dedicated support team is available around the clock.

InDrive is prioritizing expansion in Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on the Philippines. The company aims to provide its services in major cities such as Manila, Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, and Baguio. After establishing a strong presence in these key cities, inDrive plans to form partnerships with local companies. This approach will enable the company to deliver attentive and valuable services to its customers in the region.

During an interview with reporters, Arsen Tomsky, the CEO and founder of inDrive, revealed that the company has submitted an application for a license to operate as a transport network vehicle service (TNVS). Assuming all goes according to plan, inDrive, which currently ranks as the second largest ride-hailing app worldwide in terms of downloads, expects to obtain its permit to serve the Philippine market by September or earlier. 

Before the year ends maybe inDrive will be a challenger that can level the playing field in the Philippines’ taxi-app industry.