Google’s Waze posted a call on its blog yesterday (July 6) for all Israeli Wazers who commute in Gush Dan, Israel, to take part in a carpooling pilot program. The idea is to have commuters pay fellow drivers a small fee for a ride to and from work. Drivers can opt-in to the service via the Waze app, and riders need to download the new RideWith app.
Riders pitch-in on the cost of gas and wear and tear on a vehicle by reimbursing the driver via the app when the ride is complete. RideWith will calculate the cost of gas and depreciation based on route mileage and suggest an amount. The driver can then accept or decline the ride and rate.
The program is called RideWith and connects people who have similar commutes together. Available only during standard rush hour times, RideWith helps connect drivers and potential riders — such as neighbors on similar commute routes or coworkers who live near each other.
RideWith explains that the program requires the right amount of drivers and riders in a certain area, so this opportunity may not be immediately available to everyone. But as more sign on, it will be able to develop new routes.
Israeli-based Waze created a source of timely road corrections and updates. Google absorbed Waze in 2013 for a mere $1.1 billion.
A similar app called Ride already exists. The app allows for cost savings on commutes, and it also allows the driver and passenger to set up payment terms per trip, which is automatically calculated based on cost of gas in that specific place and the trip’s distance. For employers who want to offer an additional perk, Ride offers van and SUV options through a partnership with GM.
