Rideshare fare negotiation opens up for Coasties

In a salvo across the bow of Uber Central Coast residents using Australia’s second largest rideshare service DiDi will now be able to save more on rides with the launch of a revolutionary new fare negotiation model called DiDi Negotiate.

With the cost of living continuing to bite, the feature allows Central Coast’s riders and drivers to negotiate and agree on a fare before a trip is accepted – all within the DiDi app.

The Central Coast is among one of the first 22 locations across Australia to access DiDi Negotiate.

The new product aims to empower rideshare users, potentially allow for greater savings, and create more earning opportunities for local drivers.

Within the DiDi app, riders will enter their destination as normal and nominate their suggested fare for available drivers to evaluate.

Drivers can either accept the original offer or send a counteroffer for the rider’s consideration.

Once both parties agree, the ride is accepted and the rider is billed the nominated fare via their selected in-app payment method, with a low 10 per cent service fee for DiDi Negotiate trips.

Spokesperson Dan Jordan said DiDi Negotiate empowered drivers and riders to accept a fare both parties agreed to.

“DiDi Negotiate delivers true to its name,” he said.

“It offers drivers the flexibility to accept what they want to earn and riders the flexibility to accept a fare that’s within their budget.

“As Central Coast residents continue to feel the cost of living pinch, DiDi Negotiate offers a new alternative to rideshare with fares suitable for everyone.

“We hope that DiDi Negotiate both delivers savings for our passengers, but also entices more Aussies to try rideshare and therefore create greater earning opportunities for our drivers.”

DiDi has successfully launched the negotiation-style product in 12 markets, including Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Mexico, Panama, Peru, and now Australia and New Zealand.