Taxi platform Lyft has struck a deal to acquire Gett’s UK black cab business, which will nearly double the number of London rides on the Lyft platform.

The acqusition of Gett which will nearly double the number of London rides on the Lyft platform

The deal is expected to close in the coming weeks, subject to customary closing conditions. Financial details were not immediately disclosed.

Gett is one of London’s leading black cab apps with strong enterprise business-to-business (B2B) relationships, as well as three-quarters of Greater London’s registered black cab drivers.

The acquisition positions Lyft as the leading app for London black cabs. The company will offer a comprehensive suite of ground transport options – from black cabs and private hire to bikes and executive chauffeur – that will nearly double the ride count on the platform across the capital.

Lyft already operates in London through Freenow by Lyft and its partnership with Santander Cycles, and plans to build on Gett’s existing relationships across the city. The Gett team will join Freenow by Lyft following completion.

Later this year, Lyft will start testing autonomous rides in London with Baidu – making it one of the only platforms in the world offering both human-driven and autonomous rides in the city.

The business said the new deal advances its sustainable global growth strategy, while expanding ‘out’ in more locations and ‘up’ into more high-value segments.

“With Gett, Lyft is expanding its coverage of London’s full ground transport ecosystem,” said Jeremy Bird, EVP of global growth at Lyft. “This milestone reflects Lyft’s commitment to the London market and our belief in its long-term potential. Adding Gett to Lyft’s ecosystem positions Lyft as the leading app for London black cabs.”

Thomas Zimmermann, CEO of Freenow by Lyft, said: “We are excited to welcome Gett into the Lyft ecosystem, strengthening our customer-centric black cab and private hire service for Londoners, passengers across the UK and travellers worldwide.”

Matteo de Renzi, CEO of Gett, commented. “I’m confident that under this new ownership, the team at Gett by Lyft will continue to reach new heights, for the benefit of all our customers, drivers and partners.”