A new rideshare service launched this week in Columbus with the goal of taking on Uber, Lyft and the many taxi companies operating in the region.
The Texas-based company, Wridz, claims that its business model offers a better experience for both drivers and passengers. Instead of a portion of every fare going to the company, drivers pay a set, monthly subscription fee, and in return get to pocket almost the entire fare for every ride they give.
Subscription fees for drivers vary by city but average around $100 a month, according to the Ride Share Guy website.
For passengers, Wridz promises lower all-around fares and no surge pricing, although riders can offer something called PERKS, or bonuses meant to encourage a driver to accept a trip.
The company also touts its safety practices, including an identification system for both passengers and drivers, and background screenings and in-person interviews for drivers.
In Columbus, a Wridz Facebook page has been active since last spring, starting up right around the time the service launched in Cincinnati. Other cities where it is active include Chicago, Austin, and San Antonio, but many more are listed online as targets for expansion.
For more information, see wridz.com.