Bolt has launched a new integration with ChatGPT, allowing users in more than 50 countries, including eight African markets across over 90 cities, to search for rides, compare prices, and begin bookings directly from OpenAI's AI assistant.

The move positions Bolt at the centre of a growing shift towards conversational AI, where users increasingly rely on chatbots to plan daily activities instead of opening multiple apps.

By tapping into ChatGPT's estimated 900 million weekly active users, Bolt is aiming to make ride-hailing part of everyday AI conversations.

How the ChatGPT integration works

Users can activate Bolt through ChatGPT's directory of third-party integrations before requesting a ride using natural language prompts such as "Find me a ride to the airport."

ChatGPT then displays available ride categories, estimated fares, arrival times and recommended pickup points. Once a ride is selected, users are redirected to the Bolt app where trip details are already completed, allowing payment through their existing Bolt account.

Bolt says future updates are expected to support fully integrated payments within ChatGPT, eliminating the need to switch between apps.

Africa's growing AI adoption is driving the strategy

The launch comes as generative AI adoption accelerates across emerging markets.

According to Google and Ipsos, Nigeria and South Africa rank among the fastest-growing markets for AI-powered digital services, while Africa's ride-hailing industry is projected to reach $3.25 billion by 2031.

Bolt believes AI assistants will increasingly become the first place consumers search for transport, restaurants, shopping and travel recommendations.

Regulation continues reshaping ride-hailing

The integration also arrives as regulators across Africa introduce new rules for ride-hailing companies.

Kenya is considering regulations that would introduce minimum earnings for drivers, while South Africa has formally recognised e-hailing as a regulated public transport category with stricter licensing and safety requirements.

By making ride requests easier through AI, Bolt hopes to increase booking volumes while adapting to changing regulatory environments.