Bolt, one of Kenya’s leading ride-hailing platforms, has launched a new ride category dubbed “Bolt Comfort,” aiming to capture a significant share of Nairobi’s growing demand for premium, yet affordable transport solutions. The new category, now live in key areas of the capital, is part of Bolt’s strategy to diversify its services and meet the needs of an expanding middle class and business-focused clientele.
Bolt Comfort is designed to offer a more refined experience compared to standard ride options. Vehicles in this category are required to be newer models (2016 and above), fitted with mandatory air conditioning, and driven by top-rated drivers with a minimum rating of 4.8. The service is ideal for business commutes, airport transfers, client meetings, and other formal engagements where comfort and reliability are paramount.
According to Bolt, Comfort rides are expected to make up as much as 10% of all trips on the platform by the end of 2025. The company has set an ambitious goal of deploying over 1,000 Comfort vehicles by December, with a focus on high-demand areas like the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), Westlands, Kilimani, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Despite its premium offering, Bolt Comfort remains competitively priced—approximately 13% cheaper than similar service categories offered by rival platforms. This price positioning makes it one of the most accessible comfort ride options available in the Kenyan market today.
“Keeping our services affordable remains central to how we operate at Bolt,” said Dimmy Kanyankole, Bolt’s General Manager for Kenya and Tanzania. “With Bolt Comfort, we’re introducing a premium option that is still within reach for many of our users, especially professionals and corporate clients looking for reliable, high-quality transportation.”
Kenya’s middle class, now estimated to make up nearly 45% of the population, is fueling increased demand for better quality services across multiple sectors. In Nairobi, this demographic shift is reflected in growing expectations for professional, comfortable, and timely urban transport solutions. Bolt Comfort is specifically tailored to meet these evolving preferences.
The new category also enhances Bolt’s appeal among corporate clients, who often prioritize consistency, driver professionalism, and vehicle standards. By bridging the gap between economy rides and luxury options, Bolt Comfort positions itself as a middle-ground solution that does not compromise on quality.
To maintain service quality, Bolt Comfort requires participating vehicles to undergo third-party inspections every six months. Only drivers with consistently high ratings—4.8 and above—are eligible to offer rides in this category. This ensures that passengers not only enjoy comfortable vehicles but also a superior customer service experience.
Drivers enrolled in the Comfort program benefit from increased earnings due to higher fare rates and access to a more affluent customer base. For Bolt, this dual benefit helps attract and retain high-performing drivers while improving the overall experience for riders.
Bolt Comfort is currently available in select Nairobi neighborhoods, with plans for a city-wide rollout by the end of the year. The service will also extend into Kiambu County as part of Bolt’s broader regional expansion strategy.
Pickup times in areas where Bolt Comfort is currently operational are estimated at under five minutes, thanks to an optimized dispatch algorithm and a steadily growing fleet.
Bolt’s introduction of Comfort reflects larger trends in urban mobility and consumer expectations. As digital ride-hailing becomes more embedded in daily routines, differentiation in service levels is becoming a key competitive factor. Passengers now seek not just transportation, but an experience that aligns with their lifestyle and professional needs.
The ride-hailing market in Kenya has matured significantly, with multiple players competing for customer loyalty. By offering an affordable comfort tier, Bolt is taking a calculated step to set itself apart in an increasingly competitive environment.
With Comfort, Bolt is not only targeting immediate revenue and ridership growth but also positioning itself for long-term relevance in the premium mobility space. The move underscores the company’s adaptability and commitment to meeting the nuanced needs of its diverse user base.
“We’re building a platform where both a university student and a company executive can find the right transport option to fit their needs and budget,” added Kanyankole. “That’s how we grow with the market—by being inclusive, responsive, and forward-thinking.”
Bolt Comfort is now available for booking via the Bolt app under the “Comfort” ride category.
