Bolt, an Estonian mobility company, has entered Malaysia’s ride-hailing market as a new competitor. Recently approved by Malaysia’s Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), Bolt has launched its services in the Klang Valley, emphasizing affordable rides, shared transportation, and reducing reliance on private cars.
Malaysia is Bolt’s second venture in Southeast Asia, following its debut in Thailand.
Affordable Rides for Malaysians: Introductory 50% Discount
Bolt’s Malaysian team highlighted the company’s mission to improve city living by encouraging the use of shared transportation, which can reduce traffic congestion and free up more public spaces.
The company’s local management has emphasized that Bolt’s expansion is about building “cities for people, not cars,” with its General Manager expressing hopes that Bolt can help ease congestion by reducing reliance on private cars.
According to paultan.org, Bolt’s ride-hailing service in Malaysia is offering a 50% discount capped at RM15 per ride, with both the number of discounted rides and expiration dates varying among users. Some users are seeing offers for a single ride, seven rides, or up to 20 rides, with expiration dates that may differ individually.
In addition, there is another promotion offering a 50% discount on up to 20 rides within the Klang Valley, with a maximum discount of RM8 per ride, instead of RM15.
This promotion is valid for personal rides within the Klang Valley and is available for both cash and card payments, as well as for Bolt rides used for both personal and work-related purposes. Please note that e-wallet options are yet to be available on the platform.
The 20 rides offer is valid for personal rides only, while the 7 rides promo does not specify that it is limited to personal rides.
Pricing and Service Comparisons with Grab
When comparing the pricing and services of Bolt and Grab in Malaysia, there are notable differences that may influence a rider’s choice depending on their needs. While both services offer competitive pricing and reliable rides, the specifics of the pricing structure and available services vary.
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Pricing Differences
For example, a ride from Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC) to Petaling Jaya, about a 17-kilometer journey, costs around RM21 (SGD 6.10) on Bolt’s standard option, while Grab’s JustGrab service charges approximately RM39 (SGD 11.40) for the same route.
However, do note that prices may vary depending on the time of day and current weather conditions.
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Service Differences
Grab offers a range of premium services in Malaysia, including luxury MPVs like the Toyota Vellfire and Alphard, as well as specialized features such as the “Quiet Ride” option for a more peaceful journey and accident coverage for extra safety, soyacincau reported.
Additionally, Grab provides a wider variety of services, including grocery delivery, e-wallet services, and even metered taxis.
In contrast, Bolt currently focuses solely on ride-hailing services in Malaysia and has yet to expand into additional offerings such as food or grocery delivery.
Bolt, however, has positioned itself as a straightforward, cost-effective alternative to Grab, and the introductory discounts are expected to attract new users looking for affordable rides.
Expanding Mobility Options in Malaysia
Bolt’s wider services outside Malaysia include options like e-bike and scooter rentals, food and grocery delivery, and corporate mobility solutions.
While these features aren’t yet part of Bolt Malaysia’s offerings, the company could expand its services locally as it grows its Malaysian user base.
Bolt App Availability
Bolt’s app, available on both Android and iOS, allows Malaysian users to explore the available ride options and take advantage of the promotional discount. As Bolt gains traction, it is expected to play a notable role in providing more mobility choices and addressing urban transportation challenges in Malaysia.
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