Opinion Piece: Why Cars on Demand’s Flat Rate Pricing Beats Surge Price Manipulation

Recent ABC investigations have revealed concerning practices within the rideshare industry, with reports of drivers deliberately manipulating systems to create artificial surge pricing. At Cars on Demand, with over 35 years in the Australian transport industry since 1990, we believe customers deserve better — which is why we’ve built our service around transparency, fair pricing, and genuine customer care.

The Problem with Surge Price Manipulation

ABC’s triple j hack investigation uncovered how some rideshare drivers coordinate to reject trip requests, artificially inflating prices up to three times the normal fare. This practice particularly affects high-demand locations like airports and event venues, where customers are most vulnerable and have limited alternatives.

While we understand the financial pressures drivers face in the gig economy, passing these costs onto unsuspecting customers through deceptive practices isn’t the solution. Customers shouldn’t have to gamble on whether they’re paying a fair price or falling victim to system manipulation.

Cars on Demand’s Transparent Approach

Flat Rate Pricing You Can Trust

Our commitment to flat rate pricing means you know exactly what you’ll pay before you book. No surge pricing. No price manipulation. No unpleasant surprises when you need reliable transport most.

Our Mobile Apps Deliver Clarity

Through our user-friendly mobile applications, available across Australia, customers can:

• View upfront, fixed pricing for their entire journey
• Book with confidence knowing the price won’t change
• Track their driver in real-time without hidden costs
• Access professional drivers committed to transparent service

Trusted by Executive Assistants and Senior Executives

Operating nationwide for over three decades, Cars on Demand maintains consistent service standards whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, or anywhere across Australia. Our professional service has earned the trust of executive assistants and senior executives who require reliable, predictable transport solutions for business operations. Our drivers are fairly compensated through our transparent business model, eliminating the need for price manipulation tactics.

Why Transparency Matters

When transport companies resort to surge pricing manipulation, they breach the fundamental trust between service provider and customer. This is particularly problematic for:

• Executive assistants managing corporate travel who need predictable transport costs for executive scheduling
• Senior executives who require reliable, professional service without price uncertainty
• Event attendees who need reliable transport after concerts or sporting events
• Airport travelers who require dependable service for time-sensitive flights
• Business customers who need predictable transport costs for expense planning
• Families who shouldn’t face price gouging during peak travel times

The Cars on Demand Difference

Fair Pricing Structure Our flat rate model ensures drivers receive fair compensation without resorting to deceptive practices, while customers enjoy consistent, transparent pricing.

Reliable Service With operations across the whole of Australia, our network provides dependable transport solutions when you need them most — without the anxiety of fluctuating prices.

Customer-First Technology Our apps are designed with customer transparency in mind, providing clear pricing, real-time tracking, and direct communication with professional drivers.

Professional Driver Network Our drivers are committed to excellent service because they’re fairly compensated through our transparent business model, not through surge price manipulation.

Choose Honest Transport Solutions

While ABC’s investigation continues to reveal concerning practices in rideshare manipulation, Cars on Demand remains committed to honest, transparent service. Our flat rate pricing model protects customers from surge price gouging while ensuring our professional drivers across Australia receive fair compensation.

Ready to experience transparent transport? Download our app and discover why thousands of Australians choose Cars on Demand for reliable, honestly-priced transport solutions.

For bookings and inquiries, contact our customer service team at 1300 638 258.

Cars on Demand — Australia’s trusted transport solution since 1990, with transparent pricing and professional service across the nation.