Windhaven, a privately owned Australasian investment company with existing taxi industry investments, has taken a significant stake in the business and will “continue the innovative and leading-edge management already in the company,” according to the company.
Zoomy is an application that uses smartphone technology, GPS tracking and mobile payment technology to give customers more options and control over their taxi choices.
When users order a taxi via the Zoomy app, the company finds the closest vehicle to where the user happens to be and alerts the driver. The service is free–the only fee the passenger paying is the cost of the taxi fare–which can be done through the Zoomy app. The app is available on iPhone and Android and can be downloaded from iTunes or Google Play.
At this stage Zoomy is only available in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch but will be expanding its service to other parts of the country.
Zoomy says its point of difference from other taxi services entering the Australasian market is that the driver is a critical part of Zoomy’s customer experience, not just a commodity, so instead it partners with the taxi industry in its service. According to its website:
“When you book we’ll give you a picture of the driver and the details of the car they’ll be driving so you know who to expect. Plus, Zoomy has developed a rating system where stink driver behaviour can be reported and sorted out quick-smart. We meet every driver before letting them drive for Zoomy, and all drivers must belong to a registered taxi company that’s licenced to use Zoomy.”
Windhaven chief executive officer Ben Unger says “A raft of new entries combined with possible legislative changes and pricing options on the horizon and the introduction of new, exciting technology means the future of the taxi industry in Australia and New Zealand is changing, and changing quickly.”
“In a market where other players want to make it cheaper to the customer at the cost of safety, sustainability and quality, Zoomy seeks to bring down the costs without compromising on these key consumer or driver benefits.”
Zoomy spokesperson Jeremy Ullrich says “Zoomy is committed to working with our taxi partners, providing the platforms, technology and innovation for them to reduce costs whilst maintaining a quality service. Now, with correct funding and a desire to evolve the taxi industry, we are really looking forward to an exciting next stage.”
Zoomy says its latest projects include the expansion of the company’s unique concierge service in bars, restaurants and hotels, expansion of payment devices, and getting a greater number of drivers benefitting from the Zoomy hails.
