Woman driving car. (Photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / fizkes). Woman driving car. (Photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / fizkes).
London

Ride-hailing service for women coming to London

A ride-hailing service for women and gender-diverse individuals is planning to expand service to the Forest City this summer.

Wilma is North America’s first, women-driving-women membership service. The company which is headquartered in Vancouver, dedicates itself to providing a safe environment for women and those who identify as female to travel hassle-free.

"Wilma is about freedom,” said Senior Vice-President and Co-Founder Mary Morrison. "For every woman who has ever felt uncomfortable, had to make up a story, fake a phone call, or mention a non-existent husband to ensure her safety when ride-hailing, Wilma is for you."

Now Wilma is putting a call out for female drivers in London as service is anticipated to begin later this month with intentions to expand into Mississauga and Toronto in the fall.

The company operates using a subscription model, with members able to choose from annual, quarterly and monthly packages. Members do not have to pay a booking fee when requesting a ride, saving them around $3 per trip. Riders can also bring guests of any gender with them so long as they adhere to the code of conduct.

Last week, London police arrested a 67-year-old man accused of sexually assaulting a passenger in his vehicle while he was working for the popular ride-share app Uber. The man was later charged with forcible confinement and sexual assault. An Uber spokesperson later confirmed the man's account was shut down as a result of the incident.

More information about Wilma and how to become a driver can be found on the company's website.

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