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In this episode, I interview Will Coleman, co-founder and CEO of Alto, an innovative rideshare and delivery service emphasizing safety, hospitality, and consistency. Will discusses Alto’s operations in multiple U.S. cities, their unique business model involving employed drivers and owned vehicles, and their strategic focus on fleet management as a foundation for electric and autonomous mobility.

Most importantly, the conversation delves into Alto’s newest partnership with Uber, the complexities of fleet management, and the differentiation factors contributing to their success, such as lower insurance costs and high service quality. Will also touches on the benefits and challenges of scaling, and shares insights on the future of autonomous vehicles in the rideshare industry.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Will Coleman and Alto

01:09 – Will’s alternate bio and podcast introduction

02:57 – Alto’s unique business model

04:06 – Challenges of fleet management

08:54 – Partnership with Uber

16:18 – Benefits of Alto’s model for Uber

21:56 – Unique experience in the rideshare industry

23:30 – Challenges and solutions in fleet management

27:14 – The Alto Fleet and electrification

29:25 – Potential Downsides of the Partnership

34:00 – Alto’s Place in the Autonomous Vehicle Market

38:25 – Alto’s reaction to the Waymo Business

40:46 – Future Plans and Closing Remarks

– Harry

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