Bolt has rolled out a new feature that allows customers to search for and request rides directly through ChatGPT, marking another step in the growing use of artificial intelligence for everyday services.
The Estonia-based mobility company said the integration is now available in all of its operating markets, making the feature accessible in more than 50 countries worldwide.
The service is also active across Bolt’s African network, where the company operates in over 90 cities spanning eight countries.
By connecting with ChatGPT, Bolt is placing its ride-hailing platform in front of the chatbot’s estimated 900 million weekly active users, allowing them to check fares and begin booking trips using simple text prompts before completing the process in the Bolt app.
AI Becomes a Growing Part of Daily Travel Planning
The launch reflects the increasing role of generative AI in helping people organise daily activities, including transportation.
More users are turning to AI assistants to plan routines, holidays, meals and other tasks, reducing the need to switch between multiple apps.
Research conducted by Google in partnership with Ipsos found that AI adoption has accelerated across Africa.
In 2025, around 62% of Nigerians reported using generative AI for everyday activities, while 51% of South Africans said they relied on similar tools for tasks such as travel planning, meal preparation and fitness schedules.
With ChatGPT usage expanding rapidly across Africa and Asia, Bolt believes the integration positions the company to benefit from a growing digital audience while strengthening its presence in Africa’s ride-hailing industry, a market projected to reach $3.25 billion by 2031.
Bolt Says AI Is Changing How People Organise Their Lives
According to Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director for Rides Operations in Africa and Southeast Asia, consumers are increasingly managing their daily activities through AI conversations instead of opening several different applications.
She explained that requesting transport should become as effortless as asking an AI assistant for recommendations.
Rather than launching a dedicated ride-hailing app first, users can simply ask ChatGPT for a ride, compare available options and move directly into the booking process.
How the New Feature Works
To access the service, users must first activate Bolt through ChatGPT’s Apps or Plugins directory, where third-party services can be connected to the AI assistant.
Once enabled, customers can ask ChatGPT to arrange a ride.
The chatbot then displays available vehicle categories, estimated fares, expected driver arrival times and a suggested pickup point.
After selecting their preferred option, the booking is transferred to the Bolt app with the trip information already completed.
Payment is still processed within the Bolt application, allowing users to continue using their existing saved cards, wallets and other payment methods.
Regulatory Changes Continue Across Africa’s Ride-Hailing Industry
Bolt’s latest technology rollout comes as regulators across Africa continue to reshape the ride-hailing sector.
In Kenya, the Ministry of Roads and Transport recently proposed new rules that would require companies such as Bolt and Uber to guarantee drivers a minimum payment for every trip.
If approved, the proposal could significantly increase the country’s current base fare.
South Africa has also introduced major reforms by formally recognising e-hailing as a category of public transport under amendments to the National Land Transport Act that took effect in September 2025.
The legislation requires ride-hailing operators to obtain operating licences, register with authorities, display company branding on vehicles and comply with enhanced passenger safety requirements, including the installation of panic buttons.
Bolt Eyes Full Ride Booking Inside ChatGPT
While the current integration requires customers to complete payment inside the Bolt app, the company has indicated that this may soon change.
Bolt said it plans to introduce direct payment functionality within ChatGPT in the future, allowing customers to complete the entire booking process—from requesting a ride to making payment—without leaving the AI assistant.
If implemented, the move would create a fully integrated conversational booking experience, further blending artificial intelligence with everyday mobility services.
