A new taxi-hailing application available to Android and iOS systems commenced trial operations in Shanghai on Monday, allowing users to hire a taxi with only one click, as it requires no input of destination information.
The more user-friendly setting is set to offer more convenience to the senior population, who have been struggling to keep up with the new technology on a daily basis.
Supervised by the city government and SAIC Motor, the application, called Shen Cheng Chu Xing, will provide users access to over 20,000 taxis by 100 taxi companies in the city.
The app can automatically detect the real-time location of passengers and this will help drivers reach a pick-up location more efficiently and lower the chances of taxis roaming around the city without passengers, according to Yuan Dongliang, general manager of the application.
Users can hire a taxi by simply clicking on the “hire” button and waiting on the spot for the arrival of a nearby taxi that picks up the order. The app is also installed in the city's more than 200 taxi waiting zones, where those without a smart phone can hire a taxi.
To ensure the safety of customers, all registered cab drivers must pass identity and background checks before they are allowed to receive orders via the app.
The local road and transport authority said the app also will be updated in the near future to include more functions, such as helping drivers find nearby restrooms and dining spots.