GrabCab, Singapore's Newest Taxi Service, Launches with 40 Cabs in July

GrabCab, Singapore's newest taxi operator, launched on July 2 with a flag-off ceremony at Grab's headquarters. Over 40 cabs will be rolled out in July, with plans for more in the next three years. The flag-down fare is $4.60 for a standard four-seater vehicle, with distance rates of 26 cents for every 400m under 10km and 26 cents for every 350m after 10km. A waiting fee of 26 cents per 45 seconds will be charged. Fares are comparable to other taxi operators in Singapore.

GrabCab, a subsidiary of GrabRentals, aims to expand its fleet to meet the minimum requirement of 800 cabs within three years. The operator plans to introduce new models, including electric vehicles, to its fleet. Rental rates start at $106.20 a day, with incentives lowering the rate to $95.70 a day. The fleet includes Toyota Prius cars, and drivers can benefit from features like a safe driving bonus and a relief-matching system.

One of the new drivers, Mr. Kevin Heng, shared his experience of joining GrabCab after being a delivery rider. He highlighted the benefits of driving a taxi, such as flexibility for street-hail pickups and insurance coverage. GrabCab fully funds the course for the taxi driver's vocational license. Mr. Heng emphasized the need to change misconceptions about driving a taxi.

According to the source: The Straits Times.