Lyft is releasing a new feature that allows passengers to specify whether they'd like a driver who identifies as a woman or nonbinary. Named 'Woman+ Connect,' the feature is intended to provide passengers with a comfortable driving experience by allowing them to choose who is in the vehicle with them. However, passengers aren't guaranteed a driver that fits their criteria - there is still a chance that one can be matched with a man.
A similar feature called 'Woman Rider Preference' was launched in 2022 for Australian customers. Currently, 'Women+ Connect' is expected to debut in Chicago, Phoenix, San Diego, and San Jose in the coming weeks.
"Lyft is rolling out an inclusive product at a time when so many companies are shying away from explicit inclusion of transgender and non-binary people," Jay Brown, Human Rights Campaign’s Chief of Staff, stated in a Lyft blog post announcing the news. "Women+ Connect was built with intentionality to make rideshare better for women and non-binary riders. When rideshare is better for these folks, it’s better for everyone."
Protected Driver Selection Features
Lyft Lets Riders Select Who They'd Prefer Their Driver to Be
Trend Themes
1. Gender-inclusive Transportation - Lyft's 'Woman+ Connect' feature allows passengers to choose a driver who identifies as a woman or nonbinary, providing a comfortable and inclusive experience.
2. User-driven Driver Selection - Lyft's new feature allows passengers to specify their preference for a driver's gender, empowering them with the ability to personalize their rideshare experience.
3. Inclusive Rideshare Solutions - Lyft's commitment to explicit inclusion of transgender and non-binary people with the 'Woman+ Connect' feature sets it apart from other companies, making rideshare better for everyone.
Industry Implications
1. Ridesharing - The 'Woman+ Connect' feature by Lyft represents a disruptive innovation opportunity that can redefine the ridesharing industry with its gender-inclusive approach.
2. Transportation - The user-driven driver selection feature introduced by Lyft has the potential to disrupt the transportation industry by empowering passengers to personalize their travel experiences.
3. Inclusion and Diversity - Lyft's inclusive approach and commitment to explicit inclusion of transgender and non-binary people in ridesharing present an opportunity to disrupt the industry norms and promote diversity and inclusivity.