Mobility platform Bolt has launched a first-of-its-kind dash cam in Kenya in collaboration with AI-based mobility tech firm Driver Technologies, giving drivers access to advanced safety technology at 75% off premium.

Bolt drivers will receive a free month of the premium dash cam app, and then be able to access the premium app at a 75% discounted rate for KES 386 per month.

The offer allows Bolt driver partners to turn their mobile phones into a forward-facing exterior and driver-facing interior dash camera.

The app works in the background of other apps, showing Picture-in-Picture (PiP), so the driver knows they are recording, which will not impact the functionality of the Bolt app.

“Driver partners frequently share that dash cams provide not only enhanced security and peace of mind, but also greater accountability in their trips. Unfortunately, the cost of acquiring a reliable device has often been a barrier,” Dimmy Kanyankole, General Manager, Rides at Bolt, said.

“Through our collaboration with Driver Technologies, we are addressing this challenge by offering discounted access to premium dash cam features. This empowers drivers with tools that improve safety, support accurate clarification of incidents, and foster greater trust between drivers and passengers, all at a reduced cost.”

When Bolt first entered Kenya, it promised to make ride-hailing easier and cheaper. But over the years, its drivers have faced rising safety concerns.

Regular complaints about harassment, theft, and attacks therefore pushed the company to take stronger action.

The new feature uses a driver’s smartphone camera to record video during trips. It stores the footage securely, so that drivers and riders are protected in case of disputes or incidents.

Bolt said the initiative is designed to reduce safety incidents by providing evidence that can be used by customer support teams, the police, and insurance companies when accidents or disputes occur.

While installing the dash cams is optional, the company said it is in the best interests of drivers, who often face situations where complaints are reduced to conflicting accounts without proof.

This can also be useful in insurance claims in case of accidents as both the interior and exterior of the car will be recorded.

This partnership joins a suite of existing safety features in Bolt’s in-app safety toolkit. Recent driver partner safety efforts in Kenya have included the introduction of Rider Verification, pick-up codes and Trusted Contacts safety features.

Bolt, with operations in over 50 countries and 600 cities, provides shared mobility services including ride-hailing, scooter and e-bike rental, and car rental to over 200 million lifetime customers. More than 4.5 million drivers use the Bolt platform around the world.

For Driver Technologies, the collaboration marks an expansion of its footprint in emerging markets. The company will provide IT support and data management services for Kenyan drivers under the partnership.