Is the DiDi D1 a Express or Premier service?
3 Answers
DiDi D1 was initially categorized under the Express service before it was later separated into its own category. Currently, the D1 is positioned as a standalone service tier, with pricing situated between Express and Premier, closely resembling DiDi Comfort. Below are the steps to book a DiDi D1 ride: 1. Although the D1 operates as a separate service tier, the booking process is similar to that of the Express service. The only difference is that after confirming the pickup location, there will be an additional D1 option in the vehicle selection menu. 2. Enter "DiDi Chuxing" in the search bar (magnifying glass icon) at the top right of the WeChat homepage and click to enter the ride-hailing mini-program. 3. Once on the homepage, ensure your phone's location services are enabled. The system will automatically detect your pickup location, or you can manually input it if the auto-location is inaccurate. Then, enter your destination address in the provided field. 4. After filling in the details, the system will estimate the fare based on distance, duration, and the pricing structure of various vehicle types. Passengers can then select "DiDi Custom Vehicle" from the vehicle list and tap "Confirm to Call DiDi Custom Vehicle" at the bottom to wait for a driver to accept the ride. 5. It's worth noting that DiDi D1 drivers cannot accept carpool or special discount orders and are restricted to a specific operational area. Operating within this designated zone may qualify drivers for certain incentives. Additionally, D1 drivers are primarily assigned D1 orders but may accept Express orders if D1 demand is insufficient.
I often hail rides on DiDi, and the D1 is a common model for the Express service. It's a custom electric vehicle co-developed by DiDi and BYD, specifically designed for daily quick trips, not the luxury chauffeur service. Every time I get a D1, it feels quite comfortable—spacious inside with well-fitting seats, perfect for urban commuting. As an Express ride, it's affordable, costing just a few dozen yuan for several kilometers, which is more than half cheaper than the premium service, plus it offers stable service and quick response. The D1 is fully electric, running on battery power without fuel consumption for long trips, keeping operational costs low, so drivers are happy to use it for quick orders. If you select the Express option on DiDi, there's a high chance you'll be assigned a D1—it's kind of a backbone model. I use it daily for commuting, saving time and money, and sometimes chat about its smart features, like the automatic temperature adjustment for the AC.
As a Didi driver, I drive the D1 every day and can confidently say it's the standard for Express rides. This car is specifically optimized for Express services, completely different from the premium models used for Premier rides. From my driving experience: it starts smoothly, has minimal motor noise, and passengers often praise its comfort; cost-wise, the electric drive saves a lot, eliminating worries about fuel price fluctuations. In the platform's system, the D1 belongs to the Express category, with dispatch prioritizing basic orders—unlike Premier services which involve additional amenities or higher price thresholds. We drivers prefer it because maintenance is convenient, parts are standardized, and it boosts order acceptance efficiency. If you want to differentiate, Express is mass-market service, and the D1 fits this perfectly; Premier usually involves higher-end vehicles, like certain luxury models, with higher service fees and potentially dedicated attendants.
