Grab Malaysia is currently experimenting with a fare bidding feature that enables passengers to suggest a ride price for drivers, who can either accept the proposal or make a counter-offer.
The company is conducting a small-scale test of this feature in selected towns in Malaysia, according to The Star.
Users on social media have reported receiving notifications about the feature in GrabAcademy, an in-app learning section within the Grab driver-partners app.
The feature is labeled as “optional” for both passengers and drivers, and existing fixed fare options like JustGrab and GrabCar will remain available. Drivers who wish to participate in fare bidding rides must activate the feature.
The fare bidding process commences with a passenger initiating a request and suggesting a fare they are willing to pay for the ride. Subsequently, drivers have a 15-second window to either accept the proposed fare or present a counter-offer with a different amount, displayed on the app for the passenger to consider.
Passengers can then choose their preferred driver based on the received offers. Drivers receive notifications within 15 to 20 seconds if they have been selected by the passenger for the ride.
The company asserts that the fare bidding feature aims to establish a “more transparent and flexible pricing system” by enabling “passengers and drivers to reach a mutual agreement” on the fare.
This fare bidding system is similar to inDrive, another ride-hailing app, where passengers can propose their fare and the drivers can choose to accept or make a counter-offer.
