Ride-hailing platform, Bolt, has launched Bolt Comfort, a new premium ride category to serve Nairobi’s expanding middle class and professional commuters.
Bolt Comfort offers spacious, newer-model vehicles, 2016 and above, mandatory air-conditioning, and access to top-rated drivers (4.8+ rating).
According to Dimmy Kanyankole, General Manager for Bolt Kenya and Tanzania, “With Bolt Comfort, we’re building on that foundation by offering a premium, yet accessible option for riders seeking a higher level of service.”
Though Bolt says the launch is due to its internal research showing a strong appetite among corporate and middle-income passengers, it’s a calculated move to meet or prepare its drivers for Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) July 1st deadline on second hand vehicle importation in Kenya.
According to KRA, “effective 1st July, 2025, a new Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) schedule will be applied in the computation of customs value for used motor vehicles imported into the country.”
KRA has asked importers and other stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the new list and acquaint themselves with the changes meaning the updated CRSP list is going to be effected on July 1.
The new CRSP will set the official price for revenue body to calculate taxes on imported used cars. KRA used to use a fixed retail price but this new development will see it base taxes on the actual vehicle price, making the prices more accurate and fair.
Because the old CRSP system used fixed values and not as shown in purchase invoices and receipts, some prices were also fraudlent. The new taxes will also factor in shipping costs, freight charges, insurance, and other import-related costs and luxury cars will become affordable than in the old system. Meaning luxury cars than saloon cars will be imported. Bolt therefore needs to attract a new class of passengers willing to pay a modest premium for a more refined and consistent travel experience.
“This strategic move is part of Bolt’s broader effort to diversify its offerings, attract new premium passengers, and increase overall trip value in an evolving urban mobility landscape,” Bolt said in a statement.
To remain competitive, Bolt Comfort remains around 13% more affordable than Uber Comfort, Little Comfort among others.
“The introduction of Bolt Comfort is also a major step in strengthening Bolt’s offering to corporate clients and high-value passengers. By bridging the gap between affordability and luxury, Comfort gives riders access to better vehicles and drivers at a price point that is approximately 13% lower than similar categories on other ride-hailing platforms,” Bolt said in a statement.
The service is initially available in high-demand areas within Nairobi and its environs, including Nairobi CBD, Westlands, Kilimani, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), with estimated pickup times of under 5 minutes. Bolt plans to expand the category citywide, extending to Kiambu County by December 2025, with a target fleet size of 1,000+ Comfort vehicles.