Ford's start-up Chariot, which it bought for $50m last year, has gained approval to run a bus-like minibus services in London as part of Ford's expansion plans to diversify from the traditional auto industry, tap into the growing city trend of being driven rather than owning cars, and compete with the likes of Uber. The company is also looking at using its new technology to help people get around more easily by providing on-demand rides on public transport or even private cars. Ford already operates Chariot in San Francisco, New York, Austin, Seattle and Columbus.
Ford's start-up Chariot, which it bought for $50m last year, has gained approval to run a bus-like minibus services in London as part of Ford's expansion plans to diversify from the traditional auto industry, tap into the growing city trend of being driven rather than owning cars, and compete with the likes of Uber. Chariot, which is part ride-sharing and part local bus service, is pre-bookable only and will start with three routes, with a fourth route being added in nine months, all on a trial basis. Ford already operates Chariot in San Francisco, New York, Austin, Seattle and Columbus.