THE BACKGROUND
Blacklane provides professional chauffeurs via an app and online booking platform. It operates in over 500 cities across more than 60 countries with options of one-way, City to City and by-the-hour services. Corporate clients can benefit from automated invoicing system, dedicated corporate support and account management, corporate rebates and login access for 500+ travellers. VAT is included in every quote so there are no hidden charges. Many cars in the fleet are electric and all other journeys are offset by a carbon offset programme. Earlier this year, Uber announced it was acquiring Blacklane and the deal is expected to close by the end of 2026.
THE BOOKING
Booking was easy and quick, although the app didn’t recognise my address so I had to put in the address of a nearby petrol station. When I entered the pick-up and drop-off address the app reassuringly estimated how long my journey would take and came up with a price.
PRE-JOURNEY
A few hours before arrival, I received an email from Blacklane with the name of my driver, Hassan Allou Bouhaik, and the registration plate of his vehicle. It gave me the option to message him instantly without sharing my personal details. At the time of pick-up, I received simultaneous text and email alerts informing me that the driver had arrived and was ready for us.
THE JOURNEY
The booking was for a pick-up from a car park at the Henley Regatta. I was travelling with two other colleagues and had trouble finding them at the pick-up time, but was able to call the driver and ask him to wait. He was very patient! We found the car – a black, electric Mercedes-Benz – and Hassan, very smartly dressed, opened the doors and politely greeted us. He asked if we preferred to have music for our journey. We chose some chilled soul music and he found a suitable channel. With the cool leather interiors, comfortable seats and Hassan’s smooth driving style, I was soon drifting off into sleep and woke up at home. Perfect
THE VERDICT
This was the usual slick Blacklane chauffeur experience with just the right amount of contact throughout. A follow-up text asked me for feedback and it was all positive.
THE DETAILS
Prices depend on the journey and are all-inclusive of taxes, tips and any tolls.
