Uber vs Bolt: A Look into Gauteng’s E-Hailing Services

Gauteng, South Africa’s economic hub, has witnessed a rapid expansion of e-hailing services over the past decade. Among the many players in this competitive market, Uber and Bolt stand out as the dominant platforms shaping how residents and visitors navigate the province. As of 2025, both companies continue to compete fiercely, offering flexible income opportunities for drivers. They also provide convenient transport options for passengers. This article explores the current landscape of Uber and Bolt in Gauteng. It compares their driver earnings, pricing, service quality, and future prospects.

Also Read: Will Gauteng’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System Solve Public Transport Issues?

Driver Earnings and Commission Structures

One of the key factors influencing driver preference between Uber and Bolt is earnings potential. Uber drivers in South Africa earn an average weekly income of about R4,730. This translates to roughly R18,900 per month before expenses. Uber’s internal data reveals that drivers collectively earned over R2.3 billion in 2023. The earnings were averaging 57% higher than alternative employment opportunities. However, these figures vary widely depending on hours worked, peak demand times, and driver ratings.

Bolt, on the other hand, has gained traction by offering competitive commission rates and slightly lower fares for passengers. In Johannesburg, top Bolt drivers report weekly earnings up to R8,000. Nationally, the median weekly earning is around R6,202 as of early 2025. After deducting expenses such as fuel and maintenance, many Bolt drivers take home between R10,000 and R14,000 monthly. Bolt charges a flat 20% commission. This rate is generally lower than Uber’s commission in some cities, making it attractive for full-time drivers.

Pricing and Affordability for Passengers

Uber’s pricing advantage appears in some cities such as Durban and Gqeberha. However, in Gauteng, Bolt remains the more affordable option for most riders. Both platforms offer a variety of ride options catering to different budgets and preferences. Uber provides services ranging from Uber Go and UberX to Uber Black and Uber Comfort. Conversely, Bolt offers Bolt Go, Bolt XL, Bolt Comfort, and even Bolt Women Only.

Service Quality and Customer Experience

Despite their market dominance, both Uber and Bolt have faced growing criticism regarding service quality in Gauteng. Customer reviews on platforms like HelloPeter rate Uber and Bolt poorly, with scores hovering around 1.2 stars out of 5. Common complaints include frequent trip cancellations, overcharging, unprofessional driver behavior, and safety concerns.

Driver dissatisfaction impacts service quality. Many drivers struggle with low earnings, leading to trip cancellations for less profitable rides. There is also reduced use of air conditioning to save fuel. Safety remains a significant issue, especially in township areas where drivers face risks of criminal attacks. Although Uber has implemented safety features like in-app emergency buttons and ride verification, these measures have yet to fully address the underlying problems.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Uber and Bolt have contributed substantially to Gauteng’s economy. They create flexible income opportunities for thousands of drivers. Uber alone has generated over R17 billion in economic activity in South Africa’s transport sector. It has supported more than one million direct and indirect economic opportunities since its 2013 launch. In Gauteng, Uber’s partnership with the provincial government aims to create 10,000 jobs for township youth over three years through its Uber Eats delivery service. Already, 2,000 jobs have been created.

Bolt’s competitive commission and fare structure enable many drivers to earn a sustainable income. This is particularly true in high-demand urban zones. Both platforms play a vital role in reducing unemployment and fostering economic participation in Gauteng’s gig economy.

Check out: Fast-Growing Job Sectors in Gauteng: Emerging Opportunities

The Future of E-Hailing in Gauteng

Despite their strong presence, Uber and Bolt face increasing competition from local e-hailing platforms. These prioritize safety, driver welfare, and service reliability. Apps like Wanatu, Twytch, and Shesha have begun gaining traction by addressing the shortcomings of the international giants. If these homegrown services expand effectively, Uber and Bolt may need to improve their driver treatment and customer support to retain market share.

Moreover, the Gauteng City-Region Observatory notes that Uber and Bolt have significantly transformed urban transport. Yet, the evolving needs of commuters and drivers require ongoing adaptation from these companies.

In Gauteng’s dynamic e-hailing market, Uber and Bolt remain the leading platforms, each with distinct advantages. Uber offers a broad passenger base and extensive service options, while Bolt attracts drivers and riders with competitive pricing and lower commissions. Both face challenges related to service quality and driver satisfaction. These could influence their long-term dominance.

As Gauteng’s e-hailing sector grows-projected to expand significantly by 2030-the competition will intensify. Riders and drivers alike stand to benefit if Uber, Bolt, and emerging local players prioritize affordability, safety, and fair earnings. For now, Gauteng residents can choose between Uber and Bolt based on their preferences for cost, convenience, and service experience. They should be aware that the e-hailing landscape continues to evolve rapidly.

This analysis reflects the latest data and trends as of May 2025. It provides a comprehensive overview of Uber and Bolt’s roles in Gauteng’s e-hailing ecosystem.