Indian Startup: Rapido
Introduction
Rapido is a prominent Indian mobility startup that began in 2015 as a bike taxi aggregator
and has since evolved into a comprehensive transportation platform. Headquartered in
Bengaluru, it was founded by Aravind Sanka, Pavan Guntupalli, and SR Rishikesh. The
company aims to solve urban commuting challenges by offering a fast and affordable
alternative for short-distance travel.
Growth and Services
Starting with bike taxis, Rapido expanded into auto-rickshaws, cabs, and last-mile delivery
services. As of 2025, it operates in over 100 Indian cities, having completed more than 100
million rides. Rapido has over 10 million users and 1.7 million registered drivers, known as
'Captains'.
Business Model
Rapido connects passengers with two-wheeler owners who provide rides, earning revenue
through commissions. Captains undergo background checks, rides are GPS-tracked, helmets
are mandatory, and insurance up to ₹5 lakh is provided.
Funding and Valuation
The startup has received investment from Swiggy, TVS Motor Company, and WestBridge
Capital. It became a unicorn in September 2024, valued at $1.1 billion after a $200 million
Series E round. In February 2025, it raised another ₹250 crore (~$30 million) from Prosus.
Market Position
Rapido holds 70% of India’s bike taxi market, 40% of the auto-rickshaw segment, and 22%
of the cab-hailing market. Its broad service base and strategic growth position it as a strong
competitor to Ola and Uber.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Legal challenges persist in states where bike taxis aren't fully regulated, such as
Maharashtra. However, Rapido continues to expand and diversify, including plans to offer
intercity bus ticketing through partnerships.