We knew it’s going to happen sooner or later – today, Grab and SMRT just announced their collaboration.
Dynamic taxi fares are now here, and here’s what you need to know about this new fare structure.
Grab And SMRT To Introduce Dynamic Fixed Taxi Fare
SMRT Taxi is now in an exclusive partnership with Grab, and will use the ride-hailing platform’s as the sole app for booking their taxis.
Though no exact details have been released with regards to this new dynamic fare structure, Grab says that this new feature will launch soon. What Grab users need to know is that soon, you will be able to see a fixed fare upfront every time you book a taxi through the app.
Currently, the app only displays an estimated price range, as the taxis still rely on metered fares.
Speaking of which, metered fares will still apply to GrabTaxi, phone bookings, as well as street pickups.
Yeah we’re as confused as you are.
Most likely, they will add on a new SMRT icon to the ever-increasing ride options like they did for the electric taxis.
Adapting Taxis Fares To The Current Market
According to Managing Director for SMRT Taxis and Private Hire Services, Tony Heng he says that in the current market climate, consumers are more open to dynamic fares thanks to ride-hailing apps.
Also, having dynamic fares will benefit both drivers and passengers, as taxis will be better distributed and utilised through the day. On the passenger end, they can stand to see more affordable fares depending on real-time conditions.
Head of GrabTaxi Singapore Melvin Vu feels that the current fare model for taxis doesn’t account for the real-time supply of passengers and drivers. Since December last year, Grab has also been working with the government to implement the dynamic fare system.
By having metered fares co-exist with dynamic fares, passengers will have more options for rides, and can switch between the two depending on their needs and situation.
As for taxi drivers from SMRT, those new to Grab will receive incentives should they use the app on top of their usual street pickups.
These drivers will also undergo training with Grab to familiarise themselves with the app, as well as to be acquainted with Grab’s safety guidelines and codes of conduct.
While we await the for the next update to the Grab app to introduce this dynamic fixed fares for SMRT taxis, it’ll be interesting to see what the other taxi companies (and possibly Uber) will have in store.