Bolt users can now book rides through ChatGPT in Africa

Users can now search for fares and request rides through ChatGPT before completing their booking in the Bolt app. Bolt has integrated its ride-hailing service with ChatGPT. Users can now search for rides, compare fares and request a trip through the AI assistant before completing the booking in the Bolt app. The feature is available across all of Bolt’s markets, including eight African countries where the company operates in more than 90 cities. Users start by enabling Bolt through ChatGPT’s Apps directory. They can then ask ChatGPT for a ride. ChatGPT displays available ride categories, estimated fares, arrival times and suggested pickup locations. After a user selects a ride, the Bolt app opens with the trip details already completed. Customers then pay using their existing payment method.

Booking a ride starts with a conversation

Bolt says more people are using AI tools to organise everyday tasks, including travel. Google’s Our Life with AI survey, conducted with Ipsos, found that 62% of Nigerians and 51% of South Africans used generative AI during 2025. Respondents said they used it for activities such as planning trips, meals and daily routines. Caroline Wanjihia, Regional Director for Rides Operations at Bolt Africa and South East Asia, said the company wants customers to start planning and booking a journey from the same conversation.

Ride-hailing rules continue to change

The launch comes as governments across Africa review regulations for ride-hailing platforms. In Kenya, proposed regulations would require companies such as Bolt and Uber to guarantee drivers a minimum payment per trip if they are approved. South Africa has also introduced new rules for the sector. Amendments to the National Land Transport Act came into effect in September 2025. They formally recognised e-hailing as a category of public transport. The legislation also introduced licensing requirements for operators and additional safety measures. The current version of the integration ends once a user selects a ride. Payment still takes place in the Bolt app. Bolt says it plans to add payment functionality in a future update. Once available, users will be able to complete the entire booking process without leaving ChatGPT.