Tech Unicorn inDrive is expected to launch publicly in the Philippines next year

Here in the Philippines, Grab holds over 90% of the ride hailing market. However, a new ride hailing app widely regarded as its competitor has just been accredited by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). 

This new ride-hailing service known as inDrive was founded in 2013 in Russia. Today, it is headquartered in California. The company has been operating in 45 countries prior to its entrance into the Philippine market. 

“As we embark on this exciting journey, we look forward to fulfilling the transportation needs of Filipinos, providing them with more choices, and contributing to the evolving landscape of urban mobility,” says Roman Ermoshin, InDrive director for Asia Pacific.

While an exact public launch date has not been confirmed as of press time, it is expected to take place next year, according to a report. 

What to Expect from Ride Hailing App inDrive

The report notes that “inDrive aims to offer users the ability to select their preferred driver once a ride request is confirmed.” 

“Passengers will be allowed to select from a list of available drivers, which shows driver rating, vehicle model, and estimated time of arrival,” it adds. 

The ride-hailing service will hold a pilot of their driver registrations until December 31 in the following cities:

• Bacolod
• Baguio
• Butuan
• Cagayan de Oro
• Iloilo City

inDrive is expected to focus on providing ride-hailing services for Filipinos outside of Metro Manila. 

Key Takeaways 

inDrive’s CEO and Founder Arsen Tomsky revealed that the ride hailing app’s selling point is the “lower commission collection from driver-partners.” According to another report, this is below 10% compared to 20% to 30% for other companies.

How this will affect and change the market remains to be seen. Nevertheless, the accreditation of inDrive will undoubtedly be good news for Filipinos. This is most especially true for those located outside of Metro Manila who struggle to book a ride using available apps. 

Its arrival next year will also beef up the competition in the ride hailing market. This is because inDrive will give users another ride hailing option in the areas it will cover.