Bolt must reinstate Toyota Sienta in Bolt XL – High Court rules

Bolt XL and Toyota Sienta

Bolt XL is a category for vehicles that can carry 7 people. It’s popular among group travelers who need spacious transport. Until February 5th 2025, Toyota Sienta was listed under Bolt XL alongside other models like Honda Freed, Toyota Wish, Toyota Isis, Toyota Passo Sette, and Nissan Lafesta.

But Bolt suddenly removed all Toyota Sienta from Bolt XL category despite meeting all requirements. The affected car owners, led by Daniel Manga and Paul Wakaba, petitioned Bolt saying the decision was unfair and has financially affected them.

Court intervenes and rules

High Court Judge Chacha Mwita issued a conservatory order stopping Bolt from implementing the decision to remove Toyota Sienta from XL category. The case will be heard on June 17th 2025.

The petitioners said that Bolt XL earnings were 50% to 100% higher than standard Bolt and Bolt Economy. The sudden removal of their vehicles from XL category has caused financial losses to the drivers and affected their ability to pay loans.

Legal grounds against Bolt’s decision

The drivers, represented by lawyer Mercy Mutemi, argued that Bolt’s actions violated several constitutional rights including:

  • Right to fair administrative action

  • Protection from discrimination

  • Right to information

  • Fair labor practices

  • Consumer rights

  • Protection of youth from exploitation

Ms. Mutemi said many drivers received no formal communication before being untagged from XL category. Instead they got automated chatbot responses with generic and unclear explanations. Some were forced into the newly introduced Bolt Economy category which pays even less than the standard Bolt.They want the court to declare Bolt’s action as unfair and illegal. They also want Bolt to put Toyota Sienta back in XL category and to communicate clearly about changes in vehicle classification.

This case will affect Bolt drivers who depend on XL for higher earnings. It will also set the tone for how ride-hailing companies will implement policy changes for service providers.