GrabCab, a new player in Singapore’s taxi market, is gearing up to launch next month, becoming the sixth taxi operator in the bustling city-state with an initial fleet of 40 electric hybrid vehicles. The move comes from Grab’s subsidiary, GrabRentals, which is poised to challenge existing operators with a focus on sustainability.
According to reports from The Straits Times, GrabCab’s debut will feature the eco-friendly Toyota Prius, with plans to roll out additional hybrid models, including the Hyundai Kona, starting in August. The company is on a mission to transition to a fully electric fleet within the year, aligning with a growing trend towards greener transportation solutions.
GrabCab is setting its sights high: it aims to meet the minimum fleet requirement of 800 taxis needed to obtain a street-hail operator license before reaching its third anniversary. Victor Sim, director of GrabRentals, shared exciting news, stating that, as of June 4, the company has received between 700 to 800 registration applications from potential drivers eager to join the GrabCab team. From this pool, around 400 to 500 qualified applicants have been selected for the inaugural fleet.
When it comes to financials, rental rates for GrabCab vehicles can soar up to SGD117 (US$91) per day. However, the first 100 drivers who come aboard will enjoy a slightly reduced rate of SGD112 per day—a welcome incentive. To put that into perspective, other operators like ComfortDelGro offer their Toyota Prius rentals at approximately SGD110 per day, while Prime Taxi sets their rate at SGD109.80.
Sim has assured that GrabCab’s passenger fare structure will be on par with competitors, and the integration of the taxi meter with the Grab platform allows drivers to conveniently switch between ride-hail and street-hail jobs by simply scanning a QR code via the Grab driver app.
GrabCab’s edge? Sim highlighted the company’s cutting-edge technology and robust partnerships in the industry, including collaborations with charging point operators and fuel stations. These alliances promise discounts of up to 25% at select charging and fuel providers, making it financially appealing alongside its eco-friendly aspirations.
While GrabCab is racing onto the scene, one can’t help but think: How many electric cars can a fleet hold before they start competing with online car rentals for the grand title of Asia’s ultimate ride-sharing service?
What vehicles will GrabCab initially use?
GrabCab will start with the electric hybrid Toyota Prius and plans to add more hybrid options like the Hyundai Kona later this summer.
How many applicants have shown interest in becoming GrabCab drivers?
As of June 4, GrabCab received approximately 700 to 800 applications, with around 400 to 500 chosen for initial onboarding.
What is the rental rate for GrabCab vehicles compared to other operators?
Refunding to the competition, GrabCab’s rates can reach SGD117 daily, while ComfortDelGro and Prime Taxi offer similar vehicles at around SGD110 and SGD109.80, respectively.
