Transport company Grab is set to implement a new bonus structure for its ride-hailing drivers starting May 18. The upcoming “streaks” cashback scheme will replace the existing special trip bonus system.
This rollout follows the cancellation of a previous version of the scheme in June 2025. That version was halted after the National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA) raised concerns that monthly bonuses for certain driver tiers would be cut, potentially reducing overall earnings for full-time drivers.
How the “Streaks” System Works
Under the new model, drivers must book two-hour time slots known as “streaks.” To earn a cashback reward of between 5 per cent and 8 per cent, drivers must complete at least two trips within that slot.
The specific cashback percentage is determined by the “demand-supply balance,” with Grab stating that higher percentages will be offered during periods of “significant undersupply” to maintain reliable service for passengers.
To qualify, drivers are required to remain online for 70 per cent of the slot, which equates to one hour and 24 minutes. Drivers can earn a weekly bundle bonus of up to $160 by completing a specific number of these slots and their associated trips.
Drivers Express Mixed Reactions
Some drivers believe the change could lead to lower earnings. Hiskandar Zulkarnaen, 44, estimated that while he currently receives a guaranteed weekly special trip bonus of around $300 for 140 rides, he might only earn an extra $180 per week under the new system, even in an optimistic scenario.
Another full-time driver, who has driven for six years, calculated that hitting the highest tier of 26 streaks would require at least 52 hours of work per week. He described the resulting payout of approximately $280 as “a little lacking” given the competition to book finite slots.
Operational concerns have also been raised. Mr. Wong, 42, noted that long-distance trips to remote areas could make it difficult to complete two trips within a two-hour window. He suggested this could also lower monthly rebates, as drivers might clock fewer total trips due to longer travel distances.
Strategic Adjustments and Company Response
Not all drivers view the change negatively. Tiffany Ang, 50, suggested the scheme could benefit those who operate when fewer drivers are on the road. She advised that drivers might find an “optimal” incentive balance by mixing “streaks” slots with “shifts”—a separate scheme providing priority ride allocation in specific zones.
Grab stated that this version of the “streaks” scheme incorporates feedback from the union and drivers. New features include islandwide trip coverage, the ability to book back-to-back slots and more available timings.
A Grab spokeswoman also highlighted a new feature allowing drivers eight seconds to cancel automatically assigned trips. She noted that feedback from two pilots involving more than 400 drivers had been positive.
The Path Forward
Raven Lee, executive secretary of NPHVA, confirmed that the association engaged in discussions with Grab to refine booking timings and slot allocation to reduce idle time and improve scheduling certainty.
The NPHVA is likely to continue monitoring the impact of the “streaks” system after the May 18 launch. The association may surface further issues to Grab and press for additional improvements on behalf of drivers if earnings are negatively impacted.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new bonus scheme start?
The “streaks” cashback scheme will be rolled out starting May 18.
What are the requirements to earn a “streak” cashback?
Drivers must book a two-hour slot, remain online for at least 70 per cent of that time (one hour and 24 minutes), and complete at least two trips.
How does the cashback percentage be determined?
The cashback ranges from 5 per cent to 8 per cent and is determined by the “demand-supply balance,” with higher rates during periods of significant undersupply.
Do you think slot-based bonuses are fairer than total-trip targets for ride-hailing drivers?
