Merger to lift car value-added services

Source: Xinhua | 2018-08-15

DIDI Chuxing’s auto solutions platform, Xiaoju Automobile Solutions, has acquired online-to-offline auto after-service provider Hiservice for an undisclosed amount.

Hiservice will merge with Xiaoju Automobile Solutions’ maintenance and repair unit and will use the brand name Xiaoju Auto Care.

“The two companies share the same understanding and vision that aims to make car-owning a more enjoyable experience with value-added services,” said Chen Xi, general manager of Xiaoju Automobile Solutions.

Earlier this month, Didi said its parent company would invest US$1 billion to upgrade its auto solutions platform to become Xiaoju Automobile Solutions.

Xiaoju Auto Care is seeking to provide more tailor-made services for car-owners as Didi aims to shift focus from its car-hailing business toward linking service providers that cover the whole industry spectrum in the automobile business.

The new business group will be co-led by head of Didi’s auto care unit, Yi Yinbo, along with Hiservice founder Qian Cheng.

After combining with the three-year-old Hiservice, Xiaoju Auto Care will cover 28 offline stores in seven cities.