Zum is the Uber for Kids
Keep an eye out for their logo, right next to the Uber and Lift badges, Zum is going to be the next big thing… For kids.
Volvo Auto Group has invested in a fast growing and on demand ride sharing service for children.
Zum is a California based company that started in 2015. They provide a ride share service for parents who are on the go in this heavy full time work based economy. Zum works with a network of heavily vetted drivers who are willing to tote around our booger eating and often sticky children from point a to point b. Whether that be from school to soccer practice or even daycare, a service that can also be set up through the app itself. Zum has covered all of the necessary bases to add some relief to our busy lives!
“Drivers are vetted through a strict three-step process. They need to be able to prove they have a clean driving record and previous child care experience. Each driver is also subjected to a driving test and multiple background checks. Finally, each driver needs to present their car and pass a thorough 22-point vehicle inspection.
Zum applies advanced routing algorithms and machine learning to create the most efficient routes possible and to match drivers with rides. A mobile app and online dashboard allow both parents and schools to follow and track their kids’ journeys in real-time as they are being driven.”
- Volvo Car USA Press Release 2/28/2019
Currently, ZÅ«m has thousands of vetted and certified drivers in the Southern California area.
“Parents lead busy lives and we all understand the challenge of solving the daily life puzzle,” says Zaki Fasihuddin, CEO of the Volvo Cars Tech Fund. “So we like what we see in ZÅ«m: they offer a trusted and safe service that gives parents comfort that their kids are in good hands. Add to that their innovative technology, and it is easy to see why they are a good fit for our portfolio of investments.”
Volvo has stated that it plans on integrating the Zum service into their Care by Volvo premium subscription. This has yet to be implemented. "Companies benefit from participation by the Volvo Cars Tech Fund as they may gain the ability to validate technologies, accelerate market introduction, as well as potentially access Volvo Cars’ global network and unique position in the car market."
