Maxim Ride-Hailing deploys advanced tech to enhance accessibility and ride safety
Flexible ordering: introducing Multi-rate
Maxim users now have an option to significantly reduce the pickup time with the launch of Multi-rate, a new feature that allows them to select several rates (for example, “Economy” and “Comfort,”) at once when requesting a ride. The system automatically sends the order to a wider pool of nearby drivers, speeding up the search.
New category for large groups of passengers and out-of-city rides
In response to growing demand for spacious vehicles, Maxim has launched the new XL rate. Users can now order high-capacity vehicles ideal for groups of 5 to 7 passengers, family trips with lots of luggage, or comfortable long-distance intercity journeys. The XL rate connects riders with minivan and SUV drivers. This ensures ample space for all passengers and their belongings.
Enhanced security technologies and transparent rides
Maxim continues to prioritise passenger safety through technology and transparency. Before the pickup, clients receive all the required information about the ride, the driver and their vehicle directly in the app. All communications between clients and drivers are done through an in-app chat and calling features in order to protect the user data from potential threats.
Another security feature is the SOS button, available to both passengers and drivers. In addition, users can share their live location with their loved ones and track their ride in real time on an in-app map.
What’s more, the app now includes new cashless payment options, marking an important step in enhancing users’ financial security. Eliminating cash minimises the inherent risks of payment handling. All transactions are processed by a partner bank using secure channels, which guarantees the safety of funds and protection from fraud.
Accessible environment: a service for everyone
Following the principles of accessibility, Maxim has adapted its app for people with disabilities. The app’s interface is fully compatible with iOS and Android voice technologies. This allows people with visual impairments to independently book a ride and track their trip using voice prompts.
People with hearing or speech disabilities can communicate with the driver via text chat in the app, eliminating the need for voice calls. Passengers with mobility limitations can specify the exact pick-up location and, thanks to the notification system, drivers will be ready to provide necessary assistance, including help with luggage or wheelchairs.
The implementation of these updates underscores Maxim’s commitment to making everyday rides not only fast and affordable, but also safe and accessible for every user.
“We constantly analyse the feedback from our users and strive to make the service as convenient as possible for everyone. The introduction of new rates and features is a response to the specific requests of passengers who value pickup speed or group travel options the most. At the same time, we are convinced that our clients cannot feel truly comfortable unless they are confident in their safety. That is why we continue to develop digital protection tools. Most importantly, we are doing everything we can to ensure that people with disabilities can use our services easily and independently. We want our service to be accessible to all segments of the population,” says Limphane Lesoli, a Maxim South Africa representative.
Maxim: Ride-Hailing & Delivery opened in South Africa in June 2023. The company first launched in Cape Town and has since become available in Bloemfontein, East London, eMalahleni (Witbank), George, Gqerberha (Port Elizabeth), Kimberley, Klerksdorp, Mbombela, Middelburg, Mossel Bay, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Polokwane (Pietersburg), and Potchefstroom.
In South Africa, Maxim is targeting the mass segment of the ride-hailing market. The company offers rides and other services at prices below market average, allowing more people to use the service in their daily lives. Affordable prices enable people with different backgrounds to use the new service more often.
The service is gradually widening its footprint, providing services in areas where transportation infrastructure development is especially needed, expanding into the provinces to ensure everyone has access to affordable transportation.