U.K.-based chauffeured transport-hailing platform Wheely has expanded to New York City, the company announced.
The 24/7 service effective March 23 is available throughout Manhattan, "areas" of Brooklyn and Queens, and all major New York City airports, according to Wheely, which also operates in London, Paris and Dubai.
Wheely account holders can order through its app chauffeured transportation on demand or booked in advance. Users can personalize the service, including temperature control and music, "before their chauffeur arrives." Wheely also touts privacy as a key feature of its service: "All chauffeurs sign [non-disclosure agreements] and follow a strict confidentiality policy," according to the company.
In addition, Wheely offers Wheely for Business, web portal services that allow corporate customers to manage trips, invoicing and reporting, among other capabilities. Corporate accounts receive a dedicated account manager and a 24/7 customer service team.
The company also offers a loyalty program, available to corporate clients and individual customers who have taken 15 trips during the prior six months or who have been invited by another member. Membership privileges include the ability to reserve a chauffeur for an entire day and "concierge" service, "due to launch in NYC shortly," in which chauffeurs take on personal tasks, such as collecting gifts, delivering sensitive correspondence, or waiting on line for a reservation, according to Wheely.
At launch, Wheely offered two types of car models: "First," which features Mercedes-Benz S-Class W223 vehicles, and "Business SUV," which features Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles, according to the company.
Wheely also noted plans eventually to expand service in the U.S. to Florida, Texas and Washington, D.C.