Geolah, a new ride-hailing platform, has recently launched in Singapore, aiming to differentiate itself from established players like Grab. The company promises to offer zero-commission fees for drivers, and affordable services for riders, including a unique non-emergency medical transport ambulance, airport express, cross-border, and bookable private chauffeur services (to be introduced in mid-2023).
In an interview with Geolah’s co-founder and COO, Mr Deniel Singh, Wake Up Singapore discovered that the company’s vision was inspired by the low supply of full-time drivers, decreasing demand, longer wait times, and higher surge fares during peak and wee hours. These findings were arrived following an ‘intensive’ 12-week research program with UOB-SMU.
In addition, the high commission fees imposed on drivers were also identified as a major challenge in the ride-hailing industry.
To tackle these challenges, Geolah also introduced a unique “Community Drive” initiative targeted at selected non-profit businesses, such as the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), that require transport services at subsidized rates for their members. The company’s goal is to encourage its drivers and fleet partners to give back to society.
Approach to Safety
Mr Singh explained that Geolah’s approach to driver and rider safety involves close collaboration with local authorities, maintaining accurate records, reminding drivers to service and inspect their vehicles regularly, educating users on ride-hailing guidelines, and enabling riders and drivers to rate and review each ride.
Sustainability Efforts
To reduce its carbon footprint, Geolah is working with fleet partners to introduce EV private cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles for ride-hailing and parcel delivery services. The company is also offering more promo codes to encourage self-pick-up for food and groceries.
Vision for the Future
Geolah has ambitious expansion plans, aiming to introduce additional services within the next 12-24 months while also boosting headcounts in Singapore. The company is collaborating with overseas partners and transport authorities to gain insights into challenges, regulations, and competitors in each market. Geolah has earmarked several markets for potential entry in 2024/2025.
Geolah’s official market launch will be in July 2023. However, during their beta trial launch on 14 February 2023, the company has already registered 4,900 drivers and 15,400 passengers in just 72 hours.
Ultimately, Geolah’s zero-commission fee model, and unique services and initiatives are certainly differentiating the company from other players in the market. However, some may argue that the company’s focus on consumers instead of taking care of their drivers first may not be the right approach. After all, more drivers equate to more usage. It remains to be seen if Geolah’s business model will work in the long run, but their efforts towards sustainability and providing affordable transport services to the community are commendable.
Reactions
Geolah’s entry into the market has attracted mixed reactions on forums like r/Singapore. While many welcomed added competition to Grab, they wondered if the zero-commission policy was sustainable or simply a ‘marketing ploy.
One user drew a comparison between Geolah’s ambitious strategy and Grab’s generousity with vouchers in the yesteryears.
On Facebook groups for private hire drivers, some noted that the fees for Geolah appear to be lower than the fees for Grab.
In response to a similar post on price comparisons between Grab and Geolah, a Facebook user asked the poster to consider which app a consumer would choose based on the prices of rides.
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