Development Costs for a Ride-Sharing App Like Didi App: What to Expect

The on-demand app ecosystem is witnessing remarkable growth, particularly in the ride-sharing sector. Recent surveys indicate that the global ride-sharing market is projected to reach an impressive $332.50 billion in 2023 and is expected to climb to $378.80 billion by 2027, showcasing an annual growth rate of 3.31% (CAGR 2023-2027). Additionally, user numbers are anticipated to soar to a staggering 1,452.8 million by 2027.

For entrepreneurs considering the development of a ride-sharing or ride-hailing app like Didi app or uber like app, this is an opportune moment. However, embarking on such a project requires a significant budget, and moving forward without a clear cost estimation can lead to unforeseen expenses.

This blog will provide readers with valuable insights into estimating the costs involved in creating a ride-sharing or carpooling app similar to Didi app, helping them navigate the development process with confidence.

Uber like app

What Are Taxi Booking Apps?

A taxi or cab booking app is a digital platform that allows users to book and pay for rides from a fleet of drivers, whether they’re using their own vehicles or those supplied by taxi service providers. These apps can be developed for both Android platforms and iOS platforms, or tailored for each one separately.

In just a short amount of time, a taxi booking app connects passengers with nearby drivers, which is the fundamental function of this type of service. Passengers can typically track the driver’s location and estimated time of arrival in real time. Before booking a ride, users can also view estimated trip fares and select from various vehicle types or specific ride preferences.

This modern approach to transportation is often referred to as ride-sharing or ride-hailing, moving away from traditional methods of hailing a taxi on the street or calling a dispatch center for service.

What Are the Key Features of a Dedicated Taxi Booking App?

A taxi booking app consists of three main components: the rider app, the driver app, and the admin panel. Each of these components has its own set of functions and features designed to streamline operations for everyone involved. This complexity in app capabilities significantly influences both the cost and the time required for development.

When creating a taxi booking app, owners must decide whether to develop a minimum viable product (MVP) or a fully-featured version. An MVP includes only the essential features needed for basic operation, while a complete version encompasses a wider range of more advanced functionalities.

Why Develop a Ride-Sharing App Like Didi?

Investing time, money, and resources into a business that promises sustained growth is crucial for long-term success, and the ride-sharing sector stands out as a compelling opportunity. Developing a mobile app like ride-sharing app , example of Didi app not only presents a chance for high returns on investment (ROI) but also offers a range of additional benefits, including a solid customer base and enhanced brand visibility all while requiring minimal supervision.

Consider some key statistics that highlight the advantages of venturing into the ride-sharing market:

  • Growing Popularity: A significant percentage of consumers are now opting for ride-sharing services, demonstrating a shift in transportation preferences.
  • Market Dominance: Didi, alongside other major players, holds a substantial share of the ride-sharing market, illustrating its potential for profitability.
  • User Engagement: Didi app has amassed millions of active users, showcasing its strong market presence and user loyalty.
  • Frequent Use: Many users rely on ride-sharing services monthly, indicating a consistent demand for such platforms.
  • Impressive Revenue Growth: The ride-sharing industry has seen remarkable sales figures, highlighting its robustness and resilience in the market.

With Didi alone facilitating millions of trips daily, the potential for growth and profitability in developing a ride-booking app like Didi app is undeniable. Embracing this opportunity is not just a strategic move for today; it positions businesses for success in the future as well.

Must-Have Features of Your Didi App Ride-Sharing App

To create a successful ride-sharing app like Didi, it is crucial to provide a seamless user experience. Whether it’s the rider, driver, or admin, each user must be able to navigate the app effortlessly, maximizing its functionality without encountering lag or errors. To achieve this, there are several essential features that the Didi app must incorporate. Let’s explore them one by one.

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Must-Have Features for Riders in a Ride-Sharing App

feature of rider in ride hailing app

When creating a ride-sharing app similar to Didi, it’s crucial to prioritize the rider’s experience. Here are the essential features that every rider should have access to:

  1. Easy Registration: Riders should be able to sign up effortlessly using their mobile number, email, or social media accounts.
  2. Ride Booking, Cancellation, and Scheduling: Users need the ability to quickly book a ride from their desired location, cancel if necessary, or schedule rides for later.
  3. Real-Time Tracking: The app should allow riders to track their driver’s live location, helping them estimate arrival times or guide the driver to the exact pick-up point.
  4. Fare Splitting: If riders are sharing a ride, the app should enable them to easily split the fare with others.
  5. Multiple Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations: Riders should have the option to add multiple pick-up and drop-off locations, especially when traveling with friends.
  6. Flexible Payment Options: Offering various payment methods enhances the user experience and accommodates different preferences.
  7. Review and Ratings: After a ride, users should be able to rate their experience and leave feedback on the app.
  8. Trip History: Riders should have access to their ride history, including details like fare amounts for reference.
  9. In-App Chat or Call: The app should provide a way for riders to chat or call their driver or customer support easily if they need assistance.
  10. SOS Panic Button: An emergency button is vital for ensuring safer rides and building trust with users.

Must-Have Features for Drivers in a Ride-Sharing App

feature of driver in uber like app

Creating a ride-sharing app requires thoughtful consideration of the driver’s experience. Here are the essential features that every driver should have:

  1. Profile Management: Drivers should easily set up and manage their profiles by uploading necessary documents.
  2. Trip Acceptance: Drivers need the freedom to accept or reject trips based on their availability and preference.
  3. Trip Information: The app should provide detailed information about each trip, including the number of passengers if it’s a shared ride.
  4. Navigation Assistance: Drivers must receive navigation support to ensure they can reach passengers using the quickest route.
  5. Passenger Ratings: Just as passengers rate drivers, the app should allow drivers to rate and review passengers based on their behavior.
  6. Earnings Summary: Drivers should have access to reports that give insights into their working hours and earnings, helping them enhance their services.
  7. Flexible Payment Options: An integrated payment system should support various payment methods for easy transactions.
  8. In-App Communication: Drivers should be able to chat or call both passengers and customer support directly through the app.

By including these features, a ride-sharing app can provide a smooth and efficient experience for drivers, ensuring their needs are met.

Must-Have Features for Admin in a Ride-Sharing App Like Didi

feature of admin panel in ride hailing app

To effectively manage a ride-sharing app like Didi, the admin panel should incorporate essential features that streamline operations. Here’s a rundown of the must-have features for the admin:

  1. Scheduled Requests: Admins should be able to view all scheduled ride requests, complete with details such as pick-up locations, destinations, and payment methods.
  2. User Reviews Management: The app must enable admins to read and respond to user reviews, enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, admins should have the authority to block drivers or users if their behavior is deemed inappropriate.
  3. Request Management: Admins should be able to accept or reject partnership and driver requests, ensuring that only qualified individuals are onboarded.
  4. Payment Oversight: These mobile app must allow admins to view comprehensive earning reports and manage all payment transactions efficiently.
  5. Driver Tracking: Admins should have the capability to track drivers in real-time, along with access to their complete details for better oversight.
  6. Marketing Management: The admin panel should provide tools for managing advertisements, coupons, discounts, and push notifications to enhance user engagement.

By incorporating these features, a ride-sharing app like Didi app can empower its admin to manage the platform efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience for both riders and drivers.

5 Factors That Influence the Cost of Developing a Ride-Sharing App Like Didi

Creating a ride-sharing app like Didi involves various costs that can fluctuate based on several key factors.

  1. Features: The features you decide to include have a direct impact on your app’s development cost. If you go for basic functionalities, the price will be lower. However, if you want advanced features such as speed limit alerts, real-time ID checks, heat maps, or any specific capabilities tailored to your needs, the costs will naturally rise.
  2. Tech Stack:The technology used in building your app is crucial. More advanced technologies typically lead to higher costs. Nevertheless, investing in the latest tech is essential for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market like ride-sharing.
  3. UI & UX Design: A ride-sharing app must be visually appealing and user-friendly to attract and keep users engaged. The effectiveness of the UI and UX plays a vital role in creating an enjoyable experience that encourages users to return. Factors like intuitive icons, customization, and engaging notifications require additional design work, which can increase overall development expenses.
  4. Development Company & Location: The cost of app development can vary widely based on the expertise of the development company and its geographical location. For instance, working with a development team in countries like India may be more cost-effective compared to hiring a firm in the US, primarily due to differences in labor costs.
  5. Type of App & Platform: The decision between developing a native app development, a hybrid app, or targeting specific platforms (iOS or Android) will also influence costs. Generally, Android apps are more expensive to develop due to the need for compatibility across various devices. Similarly, native apps often incur higher costs than hybrid apps due to their complexity and performance advantages.
Total Cost to Develop a Ride-Sharing App

Total Cost to Develop a Ride-Sharing App Like Didi

FeatureApproximate Time (Hours)Cost (USD)
Registration & Profile80$2,400
Ride Scheduling40$1,200
Ride Cost Estimation90$2,700
Notifications40$1,200
Booking Ride for Others70$2,100
Payment Integration80$1,200
Geolocation-related Features100$2,100
Framework & Libraries Integration (Back-end)50$2,400
Framework & Libraries Integration (Android / iOS)60$1,800
UI/UX Design (Android / iOS)60$1,800
Total for iOS or Android App (User & Driver)450$13,500
Total for iOS and Android App (User & Driver)800$24,000
Total for iOS or Android or Cross-platform (Admin)250$7,500

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Conclusion

Creating a dedicated taxi booking app like Didi app is a fantastic opportunity in today’s ride-sharing landscape. To succeed, it’s important to focus on the essential features for the rider app, driver app, and admin panel, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved. Whether you choose to start with a minimum viable product or a more comprehensive version, prioritizing user-friendly functionalities is key. With the right approach, your app can stand out in a crowded market and provide real value to users, making transportation easier and more convenient for everyone. Now is the perfect time to bring your vision to life and make a difference in the world of ride-sharing.

Author

A well-versed experience in the field of IT with more than 14+ years of expertise in DevOps Consulting, Quality Assurance, Project Management & Outsourcing and predominantly focusing on customer relationships, negotiations, estimations, contact partners, market research and helping small business owners and young entrepreneurs to reach their next level.