Juliette Kayyem’s new security challenge: Transporting kids
Summary
With the ease of a smartphone app, parents can schedule rides with a driver, complete with a dashboard camera that sends a live video feed to mom and dad. Khan, who remains involved as Zemcar’s chairman, said he always envisioned a woman at the helm, someone who understood firsthand the logistical nightmare of getting kids to and from soccer and baseball practices. The niche player boasts additional background checks beyond what the state requires, including face-to-face interviews for prospective drivers and a minimum driving history of five years. Carlo Ratti, professor of the practice of urban technologies and director of the MIT Senseable City Lab, said Zemcar’s focus on safety is similar to how ratings have been used to build brands online. “I would say this applies even more in the field of ride hailing for kids, in which one single unfortunate episode would have immediate consequences on the reputation of the company.” So far, angel investors have fueled Zemcar’s growth, but Kayyem expects to seek venture funding next year.