Sylvia Duruson
Bolt, the popular mobility platform, has launched its second Driver Engagement Centre in Thornton, Cape Town. This initiative responds to driver feedback emphasizing the need for in-person support. The new centre builds on the success of Bolt’s Johannesburg facility, aiming to address driver concerns and challenges directly.
The Cape Town centre is part of Bolt’s strategy to fortify its relationship with driver-partners. It will offer enhanced support, swift issue resolution, and assistance for new drivers joining the platform. Additionally, the facility will serve as a Lost and Found point for passengers to retrieve items left in Bolt vehicles.
Simo Kalajdzic, Bolt’s Senior Operations Manager, emphasized the company’s commitment to driver success. He stated that drivers are crucial to Bolt’s operations, and their prosperity is a top priority. The company continually strives to enhance the driver experience and maximize earning potential.
The new centre will host various training sessions designed to equip drivers with essential skills. These sessions will cover customer service best practices, earnings optimization, safety protocols, and vehicle maintenance tips. By providing comprehensive training, Bolt aims to boost driver confidence and support, ultimately enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Bolt’s first Driver Engagement Centre, opened last year in Johannesburg, continues to provide dedicated support to drivers in that region. The company plans to expand this network of centres across South Africa, demonstrating its commitment to nationwide driver support.
In August, during Women’s Month, Bolt hosted its inaugural self-defence and safety training session for female drivers in Johannesburg. This initiative aims to address the unique safety challenges faced by women drivers on South African roads. Bolt intends to expand these safety-focused programs nationwide, further underlining its dedication to driver well-being.
The establishment of these engagement centres represents a significant step in Bolt’s efforts to provide tangible, on-the-ground support for its driver-partners. By offering face-to-face assistance, Bolt is addressing a critical need identified by drivers themselves. This approach not only helps resolve immediate issues but also fosters a stronger sense of community and support within the Bolt driver network.
The Cape Town centre’s role as a Lost and Found hub adds an extra layer of service, benefiting both drivers and passengers. This feature streamlines the often frustrating process of retrieving lost items, enhancing the overall user experience of the Bolt platform.
Bolt’s investment in driver training is particularly noteworthy. By equipping drivers with skills ranging from customer service to vehicle maintenance, the company is not only improving its service quality but also empowering drivers with valuable, transferable skills. This comprehensive approach to driver support goes beyond immediate problem-solving, contributing to the long-term professional development of Bolt’s driver-partners.
The focus on safety, especially for female drivers, demonstrates Bolt’s awareness of the specific challenges faced by different segments of its driver community. By tailoring support and training to address these unique needs, Bolt is taking a proactive stance in ensuring the safety and comfort of all its drivers.
As Bolt continues to expand its network of Driver Engagement Centres and support initiatives across South Africa, it sets a new standard in the ride-hailing industry for driver support and engagement. This approach not only benefits the drivers but also contributes to the overall improvement of Bolt’s service, potentially setting it apart in a competitive market.
