Uber rival "DiDi" prepares for UK introduction with Trafford Council application

Image credit: DiDi

Chinese ride-hailing giant "DiDi" are preparing to enter the UK private hire market to rival Uber, Bolt and other app based ride-sharing firms, with an application submitted to Trafford Council.

The company submitted an application to Trafford Council for use of an office at Empress Business Centre on Chester Road, stating the premises will be used as office space for employees, not a driver or passenger hub.

The application states: "As we're applying for a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) Operators Licence in Trafford. We're required to obtain lawful planning permission for the business use of the office space we're leasing.

"As I am applying for this planning permission on behalf of DiDi Mobility UK Ltd (DMUL) our operating model is that of an app-based technology platform that connects passengers and drivers.

"Our office space will only be used for internal employees for operational and admin-based functions and will not be open to the public. For example, passengers and drivers.

"Furthermore, the office is not to be used for the purpose of driver management or as a booking office. Therefore, parking spaces for vehicles and public access is not applicable as the office is not for public use."

DiDi, also known as DiDi Chuxing, has over 500 million users across countries such as mainland China, Brazil, Mexico and Japan.

The company provides app-based transportation services, including taxi hailing, private car hailing, social ride-sharing and bike sharing; on-demand delivery services; and automobile services, including sales, leasing, financing, maintenance, fleet operation, electric vehicle charging and co-development of vehicles with automakers.

As a major player in the ride-hail and mobility industry, having DiDi land on UK shores will certainly grab the attention of its rivals as the battle for private hire supremacy continues to heat up.