Bolt tests driver-set fares in UK cities as part of expanded earnings model
- Perry Richardson
- 5 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Bolt is piloting a fare system that allows private hire drivers to set their own prices in selected UK cities, marking a notable shift in how ride-hailing platforms structure earnings and engagement outside the capital.
The model, known as Bolt Flex, is being trialled in nine locations including Manchester, Sheffield and Newcastle. It gives drivers the option to choose their own trip fares, respond to passenger price offers and operate with a flat commission structure. Bolt has confirmed that the scheme will remain unavailable in London due to regulatory differences, although most of England’s private hire market sits outside the capital.
The company is positioning the move as an attempt to rebuild long-running concerns around commission transparency. Bolt has stated that the Flex model introduces clearer, consistent deductions per trip, an issue that has been a frequent pressure point between operators and drivers across the sector.
Early data from the pilot suggests material shifts in earnings and demand. Bolt reports that participating drivers have increased per-trip income by as much as 25 percent. Passenger activity has also climbed, with orders per hour rising by 14 percent. Although these figures reflect pilot locations rather than the full market, they indicate that fare autonomy could alter the balance between pricing, driver availability and passenger behaviour.
Pilot sees higher driver earnings and increased passenger demand as Bolt trials new fare flexibility outside London
Driver sentiment from the trial is broadly positive, according to Bolt’s survey results. The feedback shows that 77 percent joined Bolt Flex for clearer commissions, 75 percent for added flexibility in running their work and 74 percent because they valued control over setting fares. Bolt is continuing to collect further feedback as the pilot expands.
The company plans to roll out Bolt Flex to additional cities in phases, incorporating further features during the trial period. Bolt has emphasised that the Flex model is not replacing its existing option. Drivers can continue using Bolt Standard, which offers guaranteed National Living Wage top-ups, holiday pay supplements and optional pension access. Both modes can be switched on or off trip by trip, giving drivers scope to adjust depending on local pricing conditions and working hours.
Bolt entered the UK market in 2019 and now operates in 20 cities with more than 100,000 private hire drivers. The introduction of a variable pricing offer marks one of its most significant structural changes since launch and comes at a time when operators are facing mounting scrutiny over pay models, competition, and their role in local licensing frameworks. If the trial continues to reflect early performance, the model could prompt further conversations among regulators, rival platforms and local authorities about where driver autonomy fits within existing licensing controls.
Further rollout timelines are not fixed, and Bolt has not confirmed how long the pilot phase will run. The company says the trial will continue while it gathers data from both drivers and passengers across participating cities.
Kimberly Hurd, Bolt’s Senior Regional Manager for the UK, said: “Drivers are at the centre of our industry, and Bolt Flex is about putting them in control. We’ve listened carefully to driver feedback, and Flex is designed to give them exactly what they want: greater control, choice, and transparency. As the PHV sector becomes an increasingly popular way to earn, we want to be the most transparent platform in the industry and be clear about how commissions work. Drivers on Bolt Flex pay a flat transparent commission, with no surprises. Drivers know exactly what they’re getting for the work they do.”
Hurd added: “As digital platforms become an increasingly popular way to earn, we want to be the most transparent platform in the industry and be clear about how commissions work. Drivers on Bolt Flex pay a flat commission, with no surprises. People deserve to know exactly what they’re getting for the work they do.”
Muhammad, a driver from Manchester, said: “The flat commission appealed to me, and the price bidding feature means I can earn more on trips, especially when traffic is heavy and passengers are willing to pay a bit extra. It’s helping me cover costs, particularly with fuel prices going up.”
Nadeem from Sheffield said: "Bolt has set a commission that is incredibly attractive for drivers and is demonstrating transparency by showing their commission rates. I've seen a huge increase in work since switching to it."
Tahir from Wolverhampton said: “Being able to set my own fares allows me to value my time and service properly, based on things like demand and traffic. I can adjust my prices to make longer trips worthwhile especially when I end up in areas with low demand. It’s not just about driving; it’s about running my own small business with full control and independence.”
