TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Estonian ride-hailing platform Bolt launched operations in Taiwan on Tuesday, partnering with three local taxi fleets.

The move marks Bolt's first entry into the East Asian market. The company, which operates in more than 600 cities worldwide, also offers services such as e-bike sharing and car rentals, per CNA. Bolt has served more than 200 million users and has over 4.5 million drivers who receive ride requests through the platform.

The company’s initial service areas include Greater Taipei, Keelung, and Taoyuan. Bolt Taiwan General Manager Tseng Hsien-hung (曾憲竑) said that it charges drivers a commission of 10% to 20% per ride, a rate lower than the roughly 25% typically charged by other platforms. 

Tseng added the company has integrated technologies to help drivers save time and boost vehicle use. The initiative is expected to help reduce long wait times and uneven trip distribution for users and drivers.

All drivers must submit a personal photo and pass a background check before joining the platform, Bolt added. The company's ride-hailing app also has 24/7 customer support and real-time vehicle tracking to enhance safety and service quality.

The company acknowledged that there is strong competition in Taiwan's ride-hailing market, with players such as Uber, Taiwan Taxi, Hotai Motor’s Yoxi, and Line Go, in addition to regional taxi fleets. Bolt added that its initial focus in Taiwan is to expand its driver network and build brand recognition.

Bolt observed that high public transportation usage in many parts of Taiwan, combined with rising car prices, limited parking, and traffic congestion, has contributed to a decline in new driver's licenses issued in recent years. The company sees this trend as a chance to expand its presence in Taiwan.