Bangkok, Thailand, 24 October 2024- Bolt, the global shared mobility company, has announced a strategic partnership with Evolt, one of the leading electric vehicle (EV) charging companies in Thailand, to offer EV charging credits and discounts to ride-hailing drivers. This collaboration is a significant step forward in Bolt's commitment to support drivers in transitioning to electric vehicles while building the best partner experience on the Bolt platform.
Evolt charging credits and discounts are available via Bolt Rewards, a driver community reward programme available for Thai drivers since this September. The programme recognises the high-quality ride-hailing experiences that driver-partners provide with various incentives and discounts like for insurance, car maintenance, food, EV charging and fuel.
Drivers collect Evolt charging credits with every charging session and can use them to reduce their charging costs. The more the drivers charge, the more credit they receive, with the most active drivers getting additional discounts on top of the credits.
Bolt's partnership with Evolt follows the launch of the Bolt Green Category in Bangkok this April featuring over 2,000 hybrid and electric cars.
Mr Nathadon Suksiritarnan, General Manager for Bolt Rides in Thailand, said: "Ride-hailing, which currently dominates urban shared mobility journeys, can become a propelling force in the transition to electric vehicles. Professional drivers spend a significant amount of time on the road transporting others. Based on driver feedback, we know that a successful shift to zero-emission kilometres depends on drivers' confidence in electric vehicles, particularly in access to charging. Collaboration with Evolt enables us to tackle one aspect of driver partners' concerns and accelerate the drivers' transition to electric ride-hailing vehicles.
Our partnership with Evolt is the next logical step to follow the launch of Bolt Green Category in Bangkok earlier this spring. We're excited to see that since April, the number of electric and hybrid cars on our platform has rocketed by close to 260%, along with the growing share of riders hailing rides from the Green category. This reflects the growing preference for emission-free urban mobility among Thais."
Mr Poonpat Loharjun, the Chief Executive Officer of Evolt Technology Co. Ltd, said: "At Evolt, our mission is to drive the future of mobility and electrify Thailand by making electric vehicle charging accessible and seamless. We are dedicated to advancing green technology and supporting the shift towards sustainable transport. This commitment extends to our latest initiative, where we aim to enhance the EV experience for drivers through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships.
We are delighted to announce our partnership with Bolt, a global leader in shared mobility. This collaboration is a significant milestone in our journey, as it aligns with Bolt's commitment to supporting drivers transitioning to electric vehicles. By integrating Evolt's charging credits and discounts into the Bolt Rewards program, we're not only providing valuable incentives but also reinforcing our shared vision of a cleaner, more sustainable future. Together, we are making it easier and more rewarding for drivers to embrace electric mobility, ultimately contributing to a more eco-friendly and efficient transportation ecosystem."
In addition to the Evolt charging partnership, Bolt supports drivers by enhancing their access to electric vehicles. Most recently, Bolt launched a collaboration with WATT'S UP, an app-based EV motorbike rental service, to improve access to EVs among the driver base.
Bolt knows from driver surveys that a successful shift to zero-emission kilometres depends on the driver's access to EVs and fast charging. The main obstacles the drivers face are access to public charging and the high cost of EVs. With over 90% of EV drivers charging at least once daily, 80% of drivers say charging affects their active hours. Thus, discounts on fast charging and accessible electric vehicle rentals improve the EV driver experience and support the drivers considering transitioning to electric vehicles.