Through Exclusive Partnership, MapQuest and Urgent.ly Provide Free Access to On-demand Help Nationwide
DENVER & WASHINGTON — (BUSINESS WIRE) — November 11, 2014 — MapQuest, Inc., and DC-startup, Urgent.ly, today launched an integration that allows MapQuest users across the U.S. to seamlessly connect with emergency roadside help through its mobile apps. The industry-first integration connects those in need of tow, tire change, fuel delivery, jump start or lock out services to nearby and available roadside help through Urgent.ly’s on-demand platform and extensive, nationwide roadside assistance network. The partnership makes MapQuest the first navigation app that can send emergency roadside help, and marks the launch of Urgent.ly’s national service.
“MapQuest is interested in providing innovative, reliable services to our users in a way most meaningful to them,” said Nate Abbott, head of product, MapQuest. “Urgent.ly’s model proves consumers are moving toward on-demand structures for everything, including roadside assistance. This integration allows MapQuest to provide a unique, pioneering service to our users without the inconvenience of antiquated systems.”
MapQuest’s incorporation of Urgent.ly eliminates a driver’s need for membership or club fees, as well as inefficient protocols for connecting with roadside assistance providers. The Urgent.ly integration also gives drivers the ability to locate, track and communicate with nearby roadside assistance vehicles, as well as pay for services needed – all without leaving the MapQuest app.
“By partnering with MapQuest, we can take Urgent.ly nationwide, bringing on-demand emergency roadside assistance to customers throughout the U.S.,” said Chris Spanos, CEO, Urgent.ly. “For the first time, drivers will have access to transparent, reliable roadside help through a free navigation app, without membership fees or expensive auto club dues. Because Urgent.ly offers flat-rate pricing and only charges drivers for services they actually use, we can provide help to millions of MapQuest users whenever and wherever they need it.”
How It Works
Drivers who find themselves in need of roadside help need only:
- Open MapQuest’s free navigation app (available in iTunes, PLAY or the Amazon App Store)
- Tap the “Roadside Assistance” item in the MapQuest menu bar
- Seamlessly connect to Urgent.ly through a unique HTML5 experience that does not require a separate app download
After receiving vehicle information and a description of the problem, Urgent.ly locks in on the driver’s location and connects them to a nearby service provider – all within the MapQuest integration. Users can track the service provider’s progress on a map, along with its estimated time of arrival. Customers are charged via credit card only after the service is completed to their satisfaction.
About MapQuest, Inc.
MapQuest provides Internet, mobile and business solutions delivering on the promise of helping people dream, plan, share and go wherever the map meets their life. MapQuest is one of the leading mapping brands online, reaching 41.5 million multi-platform users, according to comScore Media Metrix Multiplatform. MapQuest’s mobile solutions are compatible with a variety of mobile devices, including iPhone and Android devices. MapQuest, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of AOL Inc. (NYSE: AOL), is based in Denver, Colo.
About Urgent.ly
Urgent.ly is the new, trusted source for roadside assistance. A unique part of the growing on-demand mobile economy, Urgent.ly provides a timely, safe and cost-effective roadside assistance experience without a subscription or membership. It offers two-tap, transparent service; clear, flat-rate pricing; and cashless, reliable help for motorists in need of a tow, tire change, fuel delivery, jump start or lock-out service. Drivers can access the service through the MapQuest app; download the Urgent.ly iOS app on iTunes at http://bit.ly/1kqkfVe; or immediately access the service via mobile web at m.urgent.ly. More information on the company is available at service.
Contact:
MapQuest, Inc.
Jennifer Asbury, 303-250-9524
Email Contact
@MapQuest
or
Urgent.ly
Molly
McMahon, 703-596-5688
Communications
Email Contact
@geturgently
