[imagesource:twitter/@KasiEconomy]

It was meant to be an innovative solution for e-hailing, but Bolt’s Bajaj Qute drivers have been “living a nightmare” since the launch of the Bolt Lite option in July in Johannesburg.

The new Bolt offering employs compact quadricycles instead of traditional cars, and yes, they are funny-looking, but these little yellow bug-like vehicles promised to be cost-effective alternative (for both drivers and passengers) to your run-of-the-mill e-hailing experience.

Initially, drivers who ventured into this new realm were enthusiastic about the compact quadricycles. One driver even marvelled at the minimal fuel consumption, explaining that a 100-kilometre journey barely moved the petrol indicator needle, costing as little as R200 for a full tank. Considering the current increase in South African petrol prices, that’s a welcome saving.

The Bolt Bajaj Qute rent-to-buy system also seemed promising, with some drivers hoping to eventually own their vehicles.

But what started as an optimistic pilot project in specific areas of Jozi, with plans for expansion to the rest of South Africa, has now been derailed due to alleged violence and intimidation.

Drivers have reported receiving a slew of threats from members of taxi associations, as well as arbitrary vehicle impoundments without explanation and ongoing harassment.

Footage has started circulating via social media platforms showing just how dangerous being a Bolt Bajaj driver can be.

More incidents reported where taxi operators are attacking their opposition…Bajaj Qute (Bolt Lite). pic.twitter.com/RqVy7o7PDY

— Vehicle Trackers (@VehicleTrackerz) September 6, 2023

The drivers who initially saw Bajaj as an opportunity for new beginnings, now find themselves living in fear. One driver has even revealed that someone threatened him with a gun, warning that driving a Bajaj would put a target on his back.

In the face of these issues, several drivers have chosen to leave the platform, which is not surprising, considering the “nightmare” some drivers have described in recent interviews with News24:

Who knew that a little yellow bike-car would cause this much distress? Then again, whenever someone tries to improve something in SA, someone else will burn it down.

[source:news24]