Within a month of launch, Namma Yatri fetches Rs 5.4 crore for cab drivers in Bengaluru

According to the NY team, the platform can facilitate increased earnings for the drivers because of its optimal operations. The app is working to reduce its overall cost through cloud optimisation and plans to use open-source maps to increase driver earnings. The product’s software, data, and roadmap are open for public review and collaboration, and the platform calls for citizen participation and volunteering to help develop the product.

NY currently offers cab services in non-AC mini, AC mini, sedan, and XL cab categories, catering to diverse customer needs. The non-AC mini Cab is a unique addition that addresses frequent misunderstandings between drivers and customers regarding AC usage.

Interestingly, despite the scorching summer in the IT city, many customers preferred non-AC minicabs because they were affordable. The NY team, in its response to The Indian Express, stated that even drivers have the flexibility to offer rides in non-AC cabs, potentially reducing their operational expenses, including fuel costs.

According to NY’s data, 1.75 lakh trips have been completed on cabs so far, with 6,500 -7,500 daily transacting users. NY operates on the ‘zero commission model’ in line with direct-to-driver services to improve drivers’ income, vehicle maintenance, and customer experience.

With the zero commission model, the cab drivers’ earnings have witnessed a significant boost, with a NY cab driver earning an additional Rs 800 per day compared to other platforms.

A spokesperson of NY said, “Cab drivers experience a significant boost in income under the zero commission model, earning an additional Rs 800 per day compared to the other platforms where they pay 25-30% commission. This notable increase in daily earnings mirrors the earning potential of auto drivers who make Rs 300 to Rs 400 more by completing 10 to 12 daily trips. Further, the straightforward payment structure of this model promotes a clear understanding among drivers regarding their earnings. This fosters trust and reduces the stress associated with financial transactions, contributing to a more positive working experience for cab drivers.”

Yogesh Kumar, a cab driver for the past five years, said, “The zero commission model has definitely reduced the financial burden on drivers. Compared to other apps, I can earn around Rs 700-Rs 900 extra per day using NY. With this, I can manage my overall monthly savings effectively. Commission on other apps alone would cost around Rs 10,000 every month. As a result, it was challenging to manage fuel, household, EMI, among other expenses after shelling out so much for just commission.”

Another cab driver, Manjunath, said, “I believe cab drivers are switching between different aggregator apps and can boost their income multifold. I still get most of my bookings from Ola and Uber. I have installed NY, but I get two to three rides a day. I think people are still gradually learning about NY offering cab services.”

NY has fixed a rate of Rs 100 up to 4 km for AC mini and Rs 18 for every kilometre above minimum fare, Rs 115 up to 4 km for sedan and Rs 21 for every kilometre above minimum fare, Rs 130 up to 4km for XL cabs and Rs 24 for every kilometre above minimum fare. The pickup charges for XL cabs are Rs 30, while they are fixed at Rs 20 for other services. NY will also impose 1.5 times the daytime charges at night between 10 pm and 5 am.

Explaining the reason for earning a whopping Rs 5.4 crore for its cab drivers, Magizhan Selvan, chief executive officer (CEO) at Namma Yatri, said, “Namma Yatri represents a transformative approach to addressing mobility challenges on a large scale. We are dedicated to empowering drivers through cutting-edge technology at an optimal cost, fostering satisfaction among drivers and commuters. We have received strong support from the cab driver community. Our driver wellness programs and initiatives for safety and efficient service have been adapted for the cab driver community. Ensuring driver satisfaction translates directly into providing the best service to valued customers.”

NY, which has set its cab fares in line with the Karnataka government’s new cab fares, also ensures transparent pricing by including exact toll charges for airports or other toll roads, benefiting both customers and drivers. Further, NY also allows trusted family members or friends to follow rides in real time to communicate and take emergency response actions on behalf of the commuter. Additionally, in collaboration with the city police of Bengaluru, NY, thorough background checks on drivers are conducted to ensure safe transportation.

In October, NY cab drivers will be charged a subscription fee of Rs 25 per day for unlimited rides. The app will soon introduce inter-city, rentals, and scheduled rides and open up across Karnataka. It will also accommodate special requests like disability-friendly rides, extra luggage, travelling with pets, and trips to public transport hubs.