Bolt launches Family Profile to simplify group ride payments

Bolt has launched its Family Profile feature in New Zealand, enabling one account holder to manage and pay for rides for up to nine other individuals.

The feature is intended to facilitate ride-hailing for families, caregivers, and support networks by streamlining the process of organising and paying for rides. According to Bolt, the Family Profile function is designed to make travel more convenient and manageable for users across various age groups and circumstances, particularly those who are less comfortable with smartphone technology or ride-hailing applications.

Family travel

The Family Profile functionality allows a primary account holder - often a parent or relative - to oversee the ride requirements of other nominated individuals. The feature is expected to be particularly beneficial to those supporting children, older family members, or individuals requiring assistance with transportation coordination.

"We're all about making ride-hailing easier for our users, and this new Family Profile feature offers an efficient way to support others, whether that's older relatives who may not be tech-savvy or younger family members who need a ride. We're thrilled to roll it out in New Zealand, where family ties are strong, and people value support and simplicity," said Adam Muirson, Bolt New Zealand's Country Manager.

Bolt's internal research indicates that between 2% and 6% of its rides are already booked for someone other than the primary account holder. Previously, such arrangements required manual efforts, including sharing ride information, handling payments manually, and coordinating trip details. The Family Profile eliminates much of this complexity by centralising the ride management process for multiple users under one account.

Features and controls

With Family Profile, the primary account holder can include up to nine other people in their profile. These linked users can then request rides independently, provided they have the Bolt app installed, while payments and trip oversight remain with the account holder. The system also enables the setting of monthly spending limits for each profile member, offering added control and predictability over transportation expenses.

Family members receive notifications detailing the start and finish of each ride, and the account holder has access to real-time ride tracking. If unusual circumstances arise during a journey - such as unexpected stops or route changes - the account holder can promptly contact both the rider and the driver to address any concerns. This function provides particular reassurance for those who organise transportation for elderly or less mobile relatives, allowing them to monitor trips and intervene if needed.

Each family member's trips and ride history can be reviewed by the account holder, enhancing transparency and providing further peace of mind for families managing multiple users.

Eligibility and safety measures

Bolt's Family Profile must adhere to the company's existing safety and eligibility standards. Each nominated user requires their own Bolt account and must be at least 18 years old, in line with the platform's minimum age requirements for riders. This policy ensures that Family Profile is not available for unaccompanied minors.

"Family Profile is an excellent solution for those supporting loved ones who may not use smartphones regularly or are unfamiliar with ride-hailing apps," said Muirson. "It enables people to help without needing to be physically present or coordinate every trip manually."

Alongside the Family Profile feature, Bolt has confirmed that its current safety provisions remain in place. These include driver background checks, real-time ride tracking, 24/7 customer support, and the option to share live trip details with trusted contacts. These mechanisms are designed to ensure safety for both riders and drivers.

Further developments

The introduction of Family Profile forms is part of Bolt's ongoing programme of investment in its app's usability, mapping, and routing to serve New Zealand users better. The company states that the feature is among several intended to build trust while improving safety and functionality for both riders and drivers in the country.

"As we continue to expand in New Zealand, we remain committed to delivering innovative solutions that benefit both riders and drivers. The introduction of Family Profile is an exciting development, and we look forward to seeing how it enhances the everyday lives of Kiwi families," Muirson said.

The Family Profile feature is now available to Bolt users across New Zealand, offering new options for families, caregivers, and support networks arranging transportation for multiple individuals under a single account.