More than just chauffeuring people around, Didi Chuxing now wants to help them run errands as well.
The ride-hailing giant is testing a new service in the Chinese cities of Hangzhou and Chengdu. Akin to a stripped-down version of TaskRabbit, Didi Delivery matches users with designated drivers who can help with grocery shopping and deliveries. Pricing starts at 12 yuan (US$1.73) and rises with the delivery distance.
Didi has been providing designated driving services since 2015 to customers who want someone else to drive their car, like after a night out drinking. The company tells us it’s launching Didi Delivery during the coronavirus outbreak to provide designated drivers with additional income. It plans to eventually expand to more Chinese cities.
Meituan, a food delivery app, already offers a similar service. Its drivers also act as on-demand couriers and shoppers.