Bolt is bringing its ride-hailing service to ChatGPT, giving millions of users a new way to search for rides before completing bookings in the Bolt app.

The feature is available across all of the company’s markets, including eight African countries where Bolt operates in more than 90 cities.

The rollout reflects how artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday travel planning.

Rather than switching between multiple apps, users can now ask ChatGPT to find a ride, compare prices and review pickup options within a single conversation.

The launch also gives Bolt access to ChatGPT’s more than 900 million weekly active users as demand for generative AI continues to grow.

Google and Ipsos research found that 62% of Nigerians and 51% of South Africans used generative AI in 2025 for tasks such as planning trips, meals and daily routines.

The expansion comes as Africa’s ride-hailing market continues to grow, with industry estimates projecting the sector will reach $3.25 billion by 2031.

For Bolt, the integration creates another way to reach customers as AI becomes a common starting point for online searches and travel decisions.

AI becomes a new way to book rides

Users can enable Bolt through ChatGPT’s Apps directory before requesting a ride. ChatGPT then displays available ride categories, fare estimates, expected pickup times and suggested pickup locations.

Riders complete the booking in the Bolt app using their existing payment methods.

“People don’t plan their evening in five different apps anymore. A lot of that planning happens in one conversation with AI now,” said Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s regional director for rides operations in Africa and Southeast Asia.

She said the goal is to make requesting a ride as simple as asking a question.

Regulation reshapes Africa’s ride-hailing market

The launch comes as governments across Africa continue to update rules for the ride-hailing industry.

Kenya is considering regulations that would require platforms such as Bolt and Uber to guarantee drivers a minimum payment for every trip.

Founded in 2013, Bolt operates in more than 50 countries across Europe, Africa and other regions.

The company offers ride-hailing, food and grocery delivery, car-sharing and micromobility services, making it one of the world’s largest mobility platforms.

More AI features planned

South Africa has already introduced new rules that formally recognize e-hailing as public transport, requiring operators to obtain licenses, register with regulators and meet additional safety standards.

Bolt said the ChatGPT feature currently ends once users move into the Bolt app to complete their booking.

The company plans to add in-chat payments in the future, allowing customers to complete the entire ride-booking process without leaving the AI assistant.