Uber today announced that its mobility business in India was showing strong signs of recovery on the back of increasing rider demand for low cost products Auto and Moto, thereby creating renewed earning opportunities for drivers on its platform. Uber Auto’s recovery across India, in terms of gross bookings, has now exceeded pre-Covid levels with Nagpur showcasing strong growth. As tens of millions of Indians start travelling in the new normal, the strong recovery in smaller towns underscores success for the company’s ‘India to Bharat’ strategy, which offers new products in regional markets.
With doorstep pickups, safe and contactless payments, all at affordable prices, Uber Auto is transforming the traditional street hail model for Auto rickshaws in cities across India. With fewer physical touchpoints, better air circulation and social distancing measures in place, Autos are largely being perceived as comparatively safer modes of transport. Uber’s commitment to offering riders safer, convenient and affordable mobility solutions, symbolizes the company’s vision to ensure the best possible product-market fit after the extended lockdown.
As cities open up and Uber’s markets recover across India, Uber is doubling down to provide drivers on its platform improved earnings and optimum utilization of their time, resulting in greater financial independence and the economic revival of communities. Prabhjeet Singh, President, Uber India and South Asia, said, “As cities start opening up and people begin moving again, we are witnessing renewed rider demand which augurs well for drivers because it means we can continue to create livelihood opportunities for them so they can support their families. The increasing levels of ridership across cities speaks to the trust riders place in us. We understand that responsibility and will continue to raise the bar to offer riders convenient, affordable and safe transport options for their everyday mobility needs, along with creating livelihood opportunities for driver partners.”
Safety continues to remain a priority for Uber and the company has made substantial investments to ensure platform safety to build rider and driver confidence. This includes procuring safety supplies for drivers, pioneering high quality safety screens for cars and auto-rickshaws, and implementing innovative technology led solutions to ensure riders and drivers feel safer while on a trip. Uber’s in-app safety solutions include a comprehensive set of safety measures, such as the Go Online Checklist, a mandatory mask policy for both riders and drivers, pre-trip mask verification selfies for drivers and riders, and mandatory driver education on safety SOPs.
