Bolt Drive has a new feature that evaluates drivers' driving. This feature has been active since Wednesday. Cars are equipped with devices that monitor how the driver is driving. After driving, the driver receives feedback on their driving style.
If the driver brakes abruptly or makes dangerous maneuvers, they will receive a low score. If the score is too low, Bolt may temporarily restrict car rentals. If the driver drives safely, they will receive a high score and additional benefits.
Bolt employee Diane Palev said that benefits or restrictions are not yet being implemented. They first want to ensure that the system works well. They are considering what benefits and restrictions to use.
Bolt Drive's Estonian manager Maksim Palonen said that the new system will help drivers learn safer driving. He believes it will make cities safer.
Bolt has already tested the new system. According to the results, speeding decreased by 16% and dangerous driving maneuvers by 7%. Bolt has been using a similar system for electric scooters since 2023.
For scooters, there is a three-stage warning system. If a driver rides dangerously, they receive a warning. If driving does not improve, speed is reduced. If this doesn’t help, driving is temporarily restricted. This system has helped reduce the number of dangerous rides.
In Estonia, Bolt Drive has 900 rental cars, including electric cars and vans.