Hailo brings Google Maps taxi ordering to Ireland

Transport app company Hailo has linked with Google to allow customers in Ireland to book taxis through Google Maps.

Users will now be able to look up directions in Google Maps to a destination and see the estimated availability, price and travel time there with a Hailo cab using the “ride services” tab in the app. That option appears beside the current walking, car, bike and transit options in Google Maps.

The new feature is available on both iOS and Android from today. Hailo customers in the United Kingdom and Spain have had the function since March.

"The addition of the Hailo ordering function to Google Maps is a great way to make the Hailo customer journey even more convenient," said Tim Arnold, general manager of Hailo in Ireland. " The addition of Hailo to Google Maps in Ireland recognises the key role licensed taxis play as part of Ireland's transport infrastructure."

About 45,000 people a day use Hailo taxis. The company is set to rebrand in Ireland following the agreement to merge with Daimler’s My Taxi.

The makers of Mercedes-Benz will own 60 per cent of the new group with Hailo shareholders owning the other 40 per cent stake.