Bike-taxi startup Rapido launches cab services across India with a fleet of 1 lakh vehicles

Bike-taxi startup Rapido has expanded its services to include cabs in Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, entering direct competition with Ola and Uber.

The company aims to be in 35 cities by 2024. Rapido's unique SaaS-based platform revolutionizes the traditional commission system for drivers, eliminating commission sharing with aggregators. Instead, drivers pay a minimal software usage fee, marking a significant industry shift. Co-founder Pavan Guntupalli revealed a fleet of approximately 1.2 lakh cabs and a 60% market share in bike taxis.

Rapido plans to launch Rapido Cabs nationally with an initial fleet of 1 lakh vehicles. Their platform, distinct from Uber and Ola, directly connects drivers and customers, allowing drivers to receive payments without interference. The company follows a 'Zero Commission' Model, ensuring driver partners receive direct payments from customers without any commission deducted.

To join Rapido, drivers pay a nominal subscription fee, and upon reaching earnings of Rs 10,000 through the app, they submit a Rs 500 subscription fee. This unique approach aims to maximize revenues while offering competitive fares to passengers through a consolidated SaaS-based platform.

Rapido's expansion signifies a bold move in the competitive ride-hailing industry, driven by innovative business models and a commitment to empowering drivers.