A new rideshare platform called BLOC is preparing to launch in New York City with a model that removes commission fees and eliminates surge pricing, which is when fares increase during periods of high demand. The company says drivers will keep the full fare from each trip, while riders will see more predictable pricing. The platform is expected to launch in late August or early September.
What makes the BLOC pay model different
BLOC is built on a no-commission structure. Instead of taking a percentage from each ride, the platform allows drivers to keep the full amount paid by the rider.
According to company leadership, this approach is meant to address a common issue in rideshare where drivers receive only a portion of the total fare.
“A rider can pay $50 to go from Mill Basin to JFK airport, but the driver only receives $15 of that,” said CEO and co-founder Samuel Furman. “The driver should receive that full $50.”
This model directly ties rider pricing to driver earnings, making the payout structure easier to understand.
How no surge pricing could affect earnings
BLOC plans to remove surge pricing, which is when fares increase during periods of high demand.
Without surge pricing, income per ride becomes more predictable, but drivers may miss higher payouts during peak demand, such as late nights, weather events, or large gatherings.
Drivers should weigh predictable earnings against the potential loss of higher peak rates.
What drivers should look at before joining
A no-commission model does not guarantee higher earnings on its own.
Drivers should evaluate
- Trip demand and rider volume
- Average fares without surge pricing
- Time between trips
- Any future platform fees outside of commissions
Earnings depend on how often rides are available, not just how much is paid per trip.
How BLOC plans to price rides
BLOC says fares will follow a flat pricing structure rather than change with demand.
The company estimates prices may come in 20 to 25 percent lower than typical rideshare fares.
Lower pricing can attract riders, but drivers should consider whether trip volume will be high enough to offset lower fares.
What safety features are included
The platform includes several safety features designed to support both drivers and riders.
These include
- Ride recording options
- Emergency contact access
- Real-time trip sharing
“You will absolutely have the option to record your rides, contact emergency services, and share your trip status with neighbors, friends, and family so they can make sure you get home safe,” Furman said.
These tools are meant to improve transparency and safety during trips.
What this could mean for the rideshare market
BLOC is positioning itself as a driver-focused alternative to existing platforms by removing commission and simplifying pricing.
“BLOC is a no-commission rideshare model; whatever the rider pays, the driver will keep 100% of it,” said CMO and co-founder Daniel Perkelvald.
If the platform gains traction, it could push other companies to revisit how they structure driver pay and pricing.
When the app is launching
BLOC is expected to launch in New York City in late August or early September. Drivers and riders can join a waitlist ahead of the rollout.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Will drivers keep 100 percent of the fare?
BLOC states that drivers will keep the full fare paid by riders under its no-commission model.
Q: Does BLOC use surge pricing?
No. The platform plans to use flat pricing instead of surge pricing.
Q: Will rides be cheaper for passengers?
The company estimates fares may be 20 to 25 percent lower than typical rideshare pricing.
Q: When will BLOC launch?
The expected launch window is late August to early September in New York City.
Q: What should drivers consider before joining?
Drivers should look at demand, ride volume, and how pricing affects total weekly earnings.
BLOC is introducing a different approach to rideshare pay and pricing, but driver earnings will depend on demand, trip frequency, and how the pricing model performs once the platform launches.
Author: ProDriverPoint Editorial Team
The ProDriverPoint editorial team creates practical, experience-based content for professional drivers across rideshare, limo, bus, and transportation services. Each piece focuses on real-world insights, industry updates, and strategies drivers can apply on the job.
Last updated: April 13, 2026
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