Rapido to launch new app offering car, bikepooling services

Rapido aims to enter the carpooling segment by launching Hopr, a carpooling and bikepooling app, through Flexiride Solutions, which is a separate entity led by Rapido executives, according to public filings.

Rapido, based in Bengaluru, is known for its ride-hailing and bike taxi services in India.

Hopr, available only in Bengaluru, enables users to share commutes with others on similar routes and helps vehicle owners offset fuel costs.

The app lists around 6,500 active users, despite limited App Store downloads.

This move places Rapido in competition with Quick Ride and other carpooling services in the city.

Bengaluru’s transport department has yet to introduce a specific carpooling policy.

🔗 Source: YourStory

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ Regulatory crackdowns are reshaping Bengaluru’s mobility landscape

The Karnataka High Court ruling that may ban bike taxi operators like Rapido within six weeks unless new guidelines are established has created a significant market opportunity for carpooling services1.

This regulatory pressure, combined with rising diesel prices and increased Metro and bus fares, is driving higher demand for alternative transportation options in the city1.

QuickRide, Rapido’s main competitor in carpooling, has already positioned itself to capitalize on this shift, though the company saw daily carpools drop from 60,000 pre-COVID to 20,000 due to previous regulatory confusion1.

Rapido’s decision to launch Hopr through a separate entity appears to be a strategic response to navigate these regulatory challenges while maintaining its market presence in Bengaluru.

The timing aligns with the broader mobility ecosystem transformation, where traditional ride-hailing faces increased scrutiny while carpooling emerges as a more acceptable alternative to regulators.

2️⃣ Carpooling presents substantial cost advantages in India’s expensive commute market

The carpooling market in India is projected to reach $49.02 billion by 2033, growing at 21.99% annually, indicating significant business potential for Rapido’s new venture2.