Mobility firm Bolt is set to launch its ride-hailing app in Manchester and Salford on Thursday 14 April, with the aim of offering a better alternative to private cars – be it for short or long distances, travel or delivery.
Founded in 2013, Bolt runs a range of mobility services across Europe including vehicle for hire, micromobility, car-sharing, and food delivery services. Its services have been used by four million customers in the UK, the company reported.
Josh Ryan, country manager, UK rides at Bolt, said: “Launching in Manchester and Salford is a huge landmark for Bolt as we look to roll out more affordable services amid a wider mobility offering.
“The city is renowned for its fantastic culture and sport, great nightlife and atmosphere and we’re on a mission to help local residents, students and more make the most out of it by connecting them with the people and places they love.
“Bolt offers residents an affordable and responsible way to get around and we can’t wait to welcome the first set of passengers on board.”
Bolt will open a Driver Hub on Union Street, in addition to the local licensed offices, accommodating a driver check-in and waiting area, six onboarding desks, and social features to help get drivers signed up with Bolt.
Additionally, new users in Manchester will have the chance to receive up to £10 off their first Bolt ride by entering a code into the promotions section of the Bolt app.
Furthermore, Manchester is the first city where Bolt’s new long-term partnership with The Bike Project will be activated to support local refugees in both their social and physical mobility.
Locals can donate bicycles to the initiative at pop-up hubs where bicycles will be refurbished as necessary, and given to local refugees to support independence, self-confidence and finding employment, and ultimately improve the pathways for refugees finding work once they have the right to remain in the UK.
To supplement the launch and further support refugees, Bolt will encourage its customers to make small donations to the Bike Project through its app, provide drop-off zones for second-hand bicycles, and support applicants (both technically and financially) through the process of becoming a private-hire driver should there be desire for this.
