Chinese ride-hailing company Didi Chuxing has removed two drivers who didn't meet standards set by its 2018 safety review. The decision shows a commitment to passenger safety for the loss-making firm instead of growth at all costs. The driver shortage, which will increase user wait times, could result in Didi's valuation being halved from the $80bn it reached last year. However, the SoftBank-backed business is reportedly looking to create an autonomous driving unit, which could eventually alleviate the worker deficit. The new safety standards, coupled with customer service bolstered by $20m of spending, is a response to 300,000 fatal accidents.
Chinese ride-hailing company Didi Chuxing has removed 300,000 drivers who didn't meet standards set by its 2018 safety review. The decision shows a commitment to passenger safety for the loss-making firm instead of growth at all costs. The driver shortage, which will increase user wait times, could result in Didi's valuation being halved from the $80bn it reached last year. However, the SoftBank-backed business is reportedly looking to create an autonomous driving unit, which could eventually alleviate the worker deficit. The new safety standards, coupled with customer service bolstered by $20m of spending, is a response to two fatal accidents.