Nicolas Brusson

What is BlaBlaCar?

It is an application enabling car owners to connect with those who want to go to the same destination, share journeys and reduce the cost of travel. It is a glocal travel solution.

How did BlaBlaCar come about?

Car-pooling has always been around. We thought of the app after my partner couldn’t get a train and there was no car service either.

Why India?

India's open to new ideas. Its population is a great opportunity to establish a big network.

How is security maintained on the app?

One has to go through levels of verification before signing up. The mobile number, Facebook profile, bank account number are important details that cannot be avoided.

What are the difficulties you have faced?

Expansion requires educating people about the app. There will always be some initial hesi­tation, which will go away with networking.

What is unique about the app?

The vastness of the network created by the app, the trust system it builds through profile reviewing, the levels of profile to which a person can climb up—these are special.

How is cost-sharing determined?

The seat cost and the number of people in a vehicle are predetermined based on the distance to be covered and the car type. Limits set ensure the car owner does not overcharge.

Why did you decide to call it BlaBlaCar?

A stranger's not a stranger when you talk; a journey with people means an exchange of lives.

How are you better prepared to prevent incidents such as the Uber rape case?

Information gathering is the only way to mai­n­tain safety. Customers on BlaBlaCar can choose who they travel with: couples only, men only or women only.

Plans for the future?

Expansion is the only thing on the cards.