Blacklane, the leading global chauffeur services provider, has partnered with Gargash Group, one of the leading business conglomerates in the UAE, as its most recent investor, alongside long-time backer Mercedes-Benz Mobility that also joined the round. This series F financing round brings a significant Million Dollar investment in the double digits at a valuation roughly 50 per cent higher than the previous one from 2020.
Blacklane, which brings a unique premium chauffeur service experience to its clients, has seen unprecedented growth in popularity over the last months. With the new investment, the company will focus on its fleet’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) including a retained super-charging network to accelerate its race to net zero and satisfy growing customer expectations.
Since Blacklane aims to constantly deliver premium standards across its global chauffeur services network while improving the crew’s well-being, Blacklane has founded its first Chauffeur Academy in Dubai to ensure the highest service quality right from the start.
The important Middle East market serves Blacklane as a test bed to optimise its structure and subsequently scale the new approach globally. Gargash Enterprises’ and Mercedes-Benz Mobility’s support is accelerating Blacklane’s ability to transition to EVs as well as perfecting its service blueprint and introducing it to other cities worldwide.
While Gargash Enterprises contributes its local expertise and sustainability know-how, Mercedes-Benz Mobility provides Blacklane with world-class electric vehicles optimised for perfect chauffeur service experiences. Mercedes-Benz Mobility, investor since 2013, holds a brand share of more than 50 per cent of Blacklane’s global fleet.
Jens Wohltorf, CEO and founder of Blacklane, said: “Gargash Group is the perfect partner to super-charge our growth in the Middle East and globally. Dubai is an important gateway for international clients, a key leisure and commercial city, hungry for innovation, and committed to sustainability.