Founded in 2013, Bolt is a mobility startup headquartered in Estonia. Currently, it provides services to 45 distinct markets in Latin America, Western Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The company offers services for ride-hailing, grocery and meal delivery, car rentals, micro-mobility, and business travel management. After Thailand, Malaysia is the second Southeast Asian market that Bolt has penetrated. The Google Play and Apple App Store provide Bolt’s mobile app.
How much does Bolt cost in comparison to Grab?
The most economical “Bolt” ride-hailing service, accommodating up to four passengers, would cost about RM31 from for a 16-kilometer trip. Additionally, there are no rebates or incentives available.
Using Grab’s regular “JustGrab” option, which can transport you and your three buddies, the same ride will only cost RM19.30. Once more, no discounts, rebates, or promo coupons have been used.
But hold on, Bolt is giving new users a discount!
Bolt is offering a lower price right up until November 16, 2024. New users are eligible for a 50% discount on their first seven rides within Malaysia. The maximum promo cap is RM15, though.
Do you frequently travel in the Klang Valley region? Bolt is also providing new users a 50% discount on their first 20 local rides. This offer is valid through November 14.
What differentiates Bolt from Grab?
Regarding the ride-hailing services offered by both platforms, Grab appears to provide a broader range of options, such as the ability to rent metered taxis (GrabTaxi Executive & GrabTaxi Metered) and premium MPVs like Toyota Vellfire and Alphard (GrabCar Exec). If you’re on a tight budget, you may also use GrabSaver, which offers cheaper rates but lengthier wait times.
Grab also provides other services, such as a free “Quite Ride” function ideal for folks who prefer the silence after meeting new people or simply wanting to unwind after work.
Additionally, customers can choose the “Ride Cover” option, which offers free accident coverage while riding, as well as coupons for delayed pickups. Depending on the coverage required, RM0.30 or RM1.00 can be used to activate this. You can even support Grab’s tree-planting initiatives throughout Southeast Asia by paying a “Carbon Neutral Fee” of RM0.20.
In addition to ride-hailing services, Grab provides other services in Malaysia. These include e-wallets, groceries and product delivery, and so on. However, Bolt only offers ride-hailing services in Malaysia at the moment. The Estonian business has yet to state whether it plans to launch its additional services in Malaysia soon.
