If you haven’t experienced a creepy Uber or Lyft driver, you definitely know someone who has. Plenty of headlines of kidnappings, trafficking, and theft have centered around a shady driver. BlackWolf, a developing ridesharing company in Houston, Texas, aims to “change the culture” of the industry.

BlackWolf, a veteran-owned company, promises a safer ride by employing drivers with military, law enforcement, or security experience. Yes, BlackWolf drivers carry guns. However, if a customer is uncomfortable with the idea of an armed driver, they can order a “premium” ride. Premium drivers won’t carry weapons, but they will still have at least four years of combat training.

Owner Kerry King Brown says combat-ready drivers will boost customer confidence when BlackWolf launches next year.

“It’s more of a perception. It’s more of a, ‘Hey, I have a weapon that I’m trained with and I, and I, you know, I will use it,'” Brown told KHOU 11. “I wanted to create a different culture in the ride-hailing industry.”

Not only is Brown looking forward to giving customers peace of mind, but he is also happy to employ veterans who may otherwise struggle to find employment.

“Our company stands apart from traditional rideshare services due to our commitment to veterans. We prioritize hiring individuals with at least four years of experience in military, law enforcement, or the private sector,” read a company statement. “We believe that veterans bring invaluable skills and discipline to our team, and we are honored to provide them with meaningful career opportunities.”

Texas customers love the idea of armed drivers

Brown told the outlet that polls and public surveys revealed a high demand for armed drivers. Because of the training drivers have, BlackWolf escorts would be 10 to 15% more expensive than Uber or Lyft.

“What truly sets us apart is our focus on service and security. We are not just another rideshare company; we are a veteran-first service built on a foundation of honor, integrity, and community,” Brown said.

“Our mission extends beyond transportation—I developed our platform with the vision of protecting individuals, particularly survivors of human trafficking. Now that vision has expanded to helping everyday Americans stay safe. Our commitment to protecting and supporting those who serve our communities, such as veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMTs, is at the heart of everything we do.”

BlackWolf has recently received approval from the state to operate, so those who want a more secure drive will have to wait until 2025.