by The Tuam Herald
CLAREGALWAY tech entrepreneur Richie Commins has become one of 11 Nissan Generation Next ambassadors as he continues his quest to develop his DASH taxi business.
THE 23-year old, who is studying for a degree in Business Information Systems at NUI Galway, received the keys to a brand new taxed and insured Nissan Juke car last week, as part of the ambassador programme.
OVER 1,000 people applied to the initiative where over 100.000 votes cast online for 20 finalists. Richie ran an energetic campaign, receiving widespread support from family, friends and supporters throughout the country.
RICHIE’S DASH app – Driving All Students Home – allows young people to get a taxi home safely, even when they have no cash, bank card or phone.
Over 8,000 students have already signed up to create an online account at www.projectdash.ie by adding their photo ID and bank details to create a unique four-digit PIN.
Students using the innovative service can simply present participating taxi drivers with their name and four-digit DASH pin. Taxi drivers who have downloaded the DASH app can then use these details to verify the identify of the student and to process the taxi fare upon arrival at the student’s destination.
“I am delighted to become a Nissan Generation Next ambassador and to drive away with a new Nissan Juke,” said Richie.
“We are currently preparing to roll out the service to colleges and taxi drivers across Ireland. The car couldn’t have come at a better time and it will really help to scale and develop the business,” said Richie.
“Up until now I had to rely on my mother for lifts. My new Nissan Juke gives me great independence and takes a huge pressure of my family who have been hugely supportive in helping me to get my business off the ground. I would like to thank everyone who voted for me and I’m really looking forward to realising my goals with Nissan’s support,” he added.
“Richie is an exceptional talent who shares Nissan’s commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Michael Butler, sales manager at Windsor Galway Nisson, who backed Richie during the public vote.
“We are delighted to welcome him to the Nissan Generation Next ambassador programme and to supply him with an award winning Nissan Juke so he can drive his business to the next level.
