IN response to escalating complaints about unpleasant odors in its ride-hailing vehicles, Didi Chuxing, China’s premier ride-hailing platform, has started a nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing “odor cars.” Passengers described on social media coming across “stuffy,” “musty,” or simply unpleasant odors in Didi cars, particularly during colder seasons when car windows remain shut. The cars smelt of smoke, food, or mold, many posted on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of X. In an official statement, Didi acknowledged the problem and issued an apology for any inconvenience caused to passengers. The company detailed several measures to elevate vehicle cleanliness and air quality, notably the introduction of a “blacklist” feature enabling passengers to steer clear of vehicles with subpar air quality for a period of up to a year. Didi encourages its registered drivers to uphold heightened cleanliness standards, suggesting the practice of opening windows between rides to foster air circulation. Moreover, a rewards and penalty system has been introduced. Drivers who receive negative feedback face penalties, potentially leading to temporary suspension until they undergo cleaning and hygiene training sessions. The increased emphasis on air quality and cleanliness reflects a notable shift in the ride-hailing market, as service quality is emerging as a pivotal factor alongside cost efficiency and convenience.(SD-Agencies) | 